CN107849496B

CN107849496B - Effective surfactant system on plastic and all types of utensils

Info

Publication number: CN107849496B
Application number: CN201680040534.4A
Authority: CN
Inventors: J·M·凯菲尔; T·P·埃佛逊; J·S·戴蕾; T·盖斯讷; J·托普斯
Original assignee: Ecolab USA Inc
Current assignee: Ecolab USA Inc
Priority date: 2015-05-19
Filing date: 2016-05-18
Publication date: 2021-07-30
Anticipated expiration: 2036-05-18
Also published as: US11912960B2; KR20180020156A; EP3298118C0; RU2017140032A; US11773346B2; BR112017024764A2; MX2017014847A; RU2017140036A3; AU2016264202A1; CA2986425A1; AU2018282432B2; CA2986426A1; JP2018521202A; CN107889500B; US20200123467A1; MX2017014843A; US9982220B2; AU2020204547B2; EP3298118B1; AU2016263563A1

Abstract

Surfactant systems and compositions incorporating the surfactant systems are disclosed for use as rinse aids on plastics and other ware. The surfactant systems and compositions include liquid and solid formulations, and methods for treating plastics and other ware. The surfactant system and composition provide a synergistic combination of lower active agents in the composition formulation of a plastic compatible surfactant system that provides good sheeting, wetting and drying characteristics.

Description

Effective surfactant system on plastic and all types of utensils

Cross Reference to Related Applications

This application claims priority to U.S. patent application No. 62/163,454, filed 5/19/2015, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Technical Field

The present invention relates to surfactant systems and compositions incorporating surfactant systems that are particularly useful as rinse aids on plastics and other ware. The invention further relates to methods of cleaning plastics and other ware using liquid or solid compositions incorporating the surfactant system. In particular, the plastic compatible surfactant system can be used in conventional warewashing machines and provides good sheeting, wetting, and drying characteristics, suitable as a solution for use on items including, for example, cookware, tableware, flatware, glassware, cups, hard surfaces, glass surfaces, automotive surfaces, and the like. Surfactant systems are particularly effective on plastic surfaces and for rinse aid applications because their performance is superior to conventional surfactant systems used on plastic and other ware.

Background

Rinsing, wetting and sheeting agents are used in a variety of applications to reduce the surface tension of water, allowing the solution to more effectively wet the surface. Wetting agents are included in a wide variety of compositions, including but not limited to cleaning solutions, antimicrobial solutions, paints, adhesives, and inks. A number of wetting agents are currently known, each having certain advantages and disadvantages. There is a continuing need for improved humectant compositions.

Rinse agents are commonly used in mechanical warewashing machines, including dishwashers, that are common in institutional and domestic environments. Such automatic warewashing machines wash wares using two or more cycles, which may include an initial wash cycle followed by a rinse cycle, and optionally other cycles, such as a soak cycle, a pre-wash cycle, a wipe cycle, an additional wash cycle, an additional rinse cycle, a sanitization cycle, and/or a dry cycle. Rinse aids or rinses are commonly used in warewashing applications to promote drying and prevent the formation of spots on laundered ware. To reduce the formation of spots, rinse aids are typically added to water to form an aqueous rinse solution that is sprayed onto ware after washing is complete. A number of rinse aids are currently known, each having certain advantages and disadvantages. There is a continuing need for improved rinse aid compositions, i.e., rinse aid compositions suitable for use on plastic ware.

Accordingly, it is an object of the claimed invention to develop an effective surfactant system for rinse aid applications, including warewashing applications for plastics and other wares.

It is another object of the present invention to provide a rinse aid surfactant system that provides improved sheeting, wetting and quick drying and spot free, particularly for plastic and other ware.

It is another object of the present invention to provide synergistic combinations of surfactants, including surfactant systems suitable for liquid and solid formulations suitable for low and high temperature applications, to provide the same benefits at low active agent levels.

Other objects, advantages and features of the present invention will become apparent from the following description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

Disclosure of Invention

In one embodiment, the present invention relates to surfactant systems, compositions employing the surfactant systems, and methods of use thereof.

In one aspect, a surfactant system suitable for high temperature applications comprises at least one nonionic alcohol alkoxylate according to the following formula (A or A2): R¹-O-(EO)_x3(PO)_y3-H (A), wherein R¹Is straight chain C₁₀-C₁₆Alkyl radical, wherein x₃Is 5 to 8, and wherein y₃Is 2 to 5; or R¹-O-(EO)_x4(PO)_y4-H (A2), wherein R¹Is straight chain C₁₀-C₁₆Alkyl radical, wherein x₄Is 4 to 6, and wherein y₄Is 3 to 5; and alkoxylation of a nonionic alcohol according to the formula R²-O-(EO)_x1-H (B), wherein R²Is C having an average of at least 2 branches per residue₁₀-C₁₄Alkyl, and wherein x₁Is 5 to 10. In one aspect, the high temperature surfactant system further comprises a nonionic alcohol alkoxylate according to the formula: r²-O-(EO)_x2-H (C), wherein R²Is C having an average of at least 2 branches per residue₁₀-C₁₄Alkyl, and wherein x₂Is 2 to 4.

In one aspect, a surfactant system suitable for low temperature applications comprises at least one nonionic alcohol alkoxylate according to the following formula (A or A2, B and D) R¹-O-(EO)_x3(PO)_y3-H (A), wherein R¹Is straight chain C₁₀-C₁₆Alkyl radical, wherein x₃Is 5 to 8, and wherein y₃Is 2 to 5; or R¹-O-(EO)_x4(PO)_y4-H (A2), wherein R¹Is straight chain C₁₀-C₁₆Alkyl radical, wherein x₄Is 4 to 6, and wherein y₄Is 3 to 5; and a nonionic alcohol alkoxylate according to the formula R²-O-(EO)_x1-H (B), wherein R²Is C having an average of at least 2 branches per residue₁₀-C₁₄Alkyl, and wherein x₁Is from 5 to 10; and a nonionic Guerbet alcohol (Guerbet alcohol) alkoxylate according to the formula R⁷-O-(PO)y₅(EO)x₅(PO)y₆(D) Wherein R is⁷Is a branched chain C₈-C₁₆Guerbet alcohol, x₅Is 5 to 30, y₅Is 1 to 4, and y₆Is 10 to 20.

In another aspect, a rinse aid composition is provided, preferably suitable for high temperature application use, comprising a surfactant system suitable for high temperature application comprising at least one non-ionic alcohol alkoxylate according to formula (a or a2) surfactant B, optionally a non-ionic alcohol alkoxylate according to formula (a) surfactant C and one of a plurality of surfactant polymers of formula D, E, F, G, H, I and/or J, in combination with at least one additional functional ingredient. In one aspect, the foam profile of the composition after 5 minutes has a foam height of less than 5 inches using the glenwe method, and the composition is plastic compatible, providing sheeting, wetting, and drying characteristics. Methods of rinsing a surface with the composition are also provided.

In another aspect, a rinse aid composition is provided, preferably suitable for low temperature application use, comprising a surfactant system suitable for low temperature application comprising at least one nonionic alcohol alkoxylate according to the formula of surfactant (a or a2), a nonionic alcohol alkoxylate according to the formula of surfactant B, a guerbet alcohol alkoxylate according to the formula of surfactant D, and one of more surfactant polymers of formula C, E, F, G, H, I and/or J, in combination with at least one additional functional ingredient. In one aspect, using the grignard method, the foam profile of the composition after 5 minutes has a foam height of less than 5 inches, and the composition is plastic compatible, providing sheeting, wetting and drying characteristics. Methods of rinsing a surface using the composition are also provided.

While multiple embodiments are disclosed, still other embodiments of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, which shows and describes illustrative embodiments of the invention. Accordingly, the drawings and detailed description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature and not as restrictive.

Drawings

Figure 1 shows a table depicting the correlation between the average contact angle of a polypropylene substrate surface and the concentration of active agent required to completely plate.

Fig. 2-3 show the results of example 3, where the dynamic contact angles of a variety of individual surfactants were evaluated, showing wetting on various substrate surfaces.

Fig. 4 shows a graphical representation of the data in tables 12-19 from example 5, depicting sheeting ability of a surfactant system according to an embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 5-7 show the results of example 6, where the dynamic contact angles of the surfactant systems were evaluated, showing wetting on various substrate surfaces.

Fig. 8 shows the results of the 50 cycle test of example 7, where the average fraction of glass articles tested shows the benefit of using a surfactant system according to an embodiment of the present invention for sheeting and drying.

Fig. 9 shows the results of the 50-cycle test of example 7, where the redeposited protein fraction of the glass articles tested demonstrates the benefit of using the surfactant system according to embodiments of the present invention.

Fig. 10 shows an evaluation of a surfactant system in a high temperature warewashing system according to an embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 11 shows an evaluation of a surfactant system in a cryogenic warewashing system according to an embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 12 shows a scatter plot of glassware ratings over multiple time plots at 10 locations for a test formulation using a baseline conventional rinse aid and using a surfactant system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Various embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals represent like parts throughout the several views. Reference to various embodiments does not limit the scope of the invention. The figures presented herein are not limiting of various embodiments according to the invention, but are presented to illustrate the invention.

Detailed Description

The present invention relates to surfactant systems for use in a variety of applications, including rinse aid applications and warewashing applications for plastics and other wares. The surfactant system of the present invention has many advantages over conventional combinations of surfactants due to improved sheeting, wetting and quick drying, especially for plastics and other utensils.

The embodiments of the present invention are not limited to the particular application of the surfactant system of the present invention, which may vary and are known to those skilled in the art. It is further understood that all terms used herein are for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only, and are not intended to be limiting in any way or scope. For example, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" may include plural referents unless the content clearly dictates otherwise. Further, all units, prefixes, and flags may be expressed in SI-recognized forms thereof.

The numerical ranges recited in this specification include numbers within the defined ranges. Throughout this disclosure, various aspects of the present invention may be presented in a range format. It is to be understood that the description in range format is merely for convenience and brevity and should not be construed as a fixed limitation on the scope of the present invention. Accordingly, the description of a range should be considered to specifically disclose all possible subranges as well as individual numerical values within that range (e.g., 1 to 5 includes 1, 1.5, 2, 2.75, 3, 3.80, 4, and 5).

In order that the invention may be more readily understood, certain terms are first defined. Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which embodiments of the invention belong. Many methods and materials similar, modified, or equivalent to those described herein can be used to practice embodiments of the present invention, without undue experimentation, and the preferred materials and methods are described herein. In describing and claiming embodiments of the present invention, the following terminology will be used in accordance with the definitions set out below.

As used herein, the term "about" refers to variations that may occur in quantities, such as by typical measurement and liquid handling procedures used in the real world to prepare concentrates or use solutions, by inadvertent error in such procedures, by differences in the manufacture, source, or purity of the ingredients used to prepare the compositions or perform the methods, and the like. The term "about" also encompasses amounts that differ due to different equilibrium conditions of the composition resulting from a particular initial mixture. The claims include equivalents to the amounts recited, whether or not modified by the term "about".

The terms "active agent" or "active agent percentage" or "active agent weight percentage" or "active agent concentration" are used interchangeably herein and refer to the concentration of those ingredients associated with cleaning expressed as a percentage minus inert ingredients such as water or salt.

"anti-redeposition agent" refers to a compound that helps to remain suspended in water, rather than redepositing onto the objects being cleaned. Antiredeposition agents may be used in the present invention to help reduce redeposition of the removed soils onto the surface being cleaned.

As used herein, the term "cleaning" refers to a method for promoting or assisting in soil removal, bleaching, reducing microbial populations, and any combination thereof. As used herein, the term "microorganism" refers to any non-cellular or unicellular (including consortium) organism. Microorganisms include all prokaryotes. Microorganisms include bacteria (including cyanobacteria), spores, lichens, fungi, protozoa, prions, viroids, viruses, bacteriophages and some algae. As used herein, the term "microorganism" is synonymous with microorganism (microbe).

As used herein, the phrase "food processing surface" refers to the surface of a tool, machine, equipment, structure, building, etc., that is used as part of a food processing, preparation, or storage operation. Examples of food processing surfaces include surfaces of food processing or preparation equipment (e.g., slicing, canning, or conveying equipment, including chutes), food processing utensils (e.g., utensils, tableware, washware, and bar cups), and floors, walls, or fixtures of structures in which food processing is performed. Food processing surfaces are found in and used in food preservation air circulation systems, aseptic packaging sterilization, food refrigeration and cooler cleaners and disinfectants, warewashing sterilization, blancher cleaning and disinfection, food packaging materials, cutting board additives, third pool disinfection, beverage coolers and incubators, meat cooling or scalding water, automatic dish disinfectants, sanitizing gels, cooling towers, food processing antimicrobial garment sprays, and non-aqueous to low water food preparation lubricants, oils, and rinse additives.

The term "hard surface" refers to a substantially inflexible hard surface. Such as counter tops, tiles, floors, walls, panels, windows, plumbing fixtures, kitchen and bathroom furniture, appliances, engines, circuit boards and service plates. Hard surfaces may include, for example, health care surfaces and food processing surfaces, instruments, and the like.

As used herein, the term "phosphorus-free" or "substantially phosphorus-free" refers to a composition, mixture, or ingredient that does not contain phosphorus or a phosphorus-containing compound or to which phosphorus or a phosphorus-containing compound has not been added. If phosphorus or phosphorus-containing compounds are present due to contamination of the phosphorus-free composition, mixture or ingredient, the amount of phosphorus should be less than 0.5 wt-%. More preferably, the amount of phosphorus is less than 0.1 wt-%, and most preferably, the amount of phosphorus is less than 0.01 wt-%. Without being limited by the examples of the present invention, the surfactant system and/or the composition employing the surfactant system may contain a phosphate salt.

As used herein, the term "polymer" generally includes, but is not limited to, homopolymers, copolymers, such as for example, block, graft, random and alternating copolymers, terpolymers, and higher "x" polymers, further including derivatives, combinations, and blends thereof. Furthermore, unless otherwise specifically limited, the term "polymer" shall include all possible isomeric configurations of the molecule, including (but not limited to) isotactic, syndiotactic and atactic symmetries, and combinations thereof. Furthermore, unless otherwise specifically limited, the term "polymer" shall include all possible geometrical configurations of the molecule.

As used herein, the term "soil" or "stain" refers to a non-polar oily substance that may or may not contain particulate matter such as mineral clays, sand, natural minerals, carbon black, graphite, kaolin, environmental dust, and the like.

As used herein, the term "substantially free" means that the composition lacks said component at all or has such a small amount of said component that the component does not affect the properties of the composition. The components may be present as impurities or as contaminants and should be less than 0.5 wt-%. In another embodiment, the amount of component is less than 0.1 wt-%, and in another embodiment, the amount of component is less than 0.01 wt-%.

The term "substantially similar cleaning performance" generally refers to being achieved by an alternative cleaning product or alternative cleaning system having a generally same degree of cleanliness (or at least a degree that is not significantly less), or a generally same consumption of air (or at least a consumption that is not significantly less), or both.

As used herein, the term "vessel" refers to the following items: food and cooking appliances, dishes, and other hard surfaces such as showers, sinks, toilets, bathtubs, counter tops, windows, mirrors, transportation vehicles, and floors. As used herein, the term "warewashing" refers to washing, rinsing, or rinsing ware. Vessel also refers to an article made of plastic. Types of plastics that may be cleaned with the composition according to the invention include, but are not limited to, plastics including Polypropylene Polymers (PP), polycarbonate Polymers (PC), melamine formaldehyde resins or melamine resins (melamine), acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymers (ABS), and polysulfone Polymers (PS). Other exemplary plastics that may be cleaned using the compounds and compositions of the present invention include polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polystyrene polyamide.

As used herein, the terms "weight percent," "wt-%", "percent by weight," "wt%", and variations thereof refer to the concentration of a substance calculated as the weight of the substance divided by the total weight of the composition and multiplied by 100. It is understood that as used herein, "percent," "percent," and the like are intended to be synonymous with "weight percent," "wt-%" and the like.

As used herein, the term "parts by weight" and variations thereof refers to the relative weight proportion of the materials in the composition within the total weight of the materials.

The methods and compositions of the present invention can comprise, consist essentially of, or consist of the components and ingredients of the present invention as well as other ingredients described herein. As used herein, "consisting essentially of …" means that the methods and compositions may include additional steps, components, or ingredients, provided only that such additional steps, components, or ingredients do not materially alter the basic and novel characteristics of the claimed methods and compositions.

Composition comprising a metal oxide and a metal oxide

The compositions according to the present invention include at least one surfactant system for cleaning plastic and other implements, as well as various other hard surfaces requiring compositions that provide good sheeting, wetting, and drying characteristics. In some aspects, the present invention provides compositions that can be used as rinse aids that are effective in reducing spotting and filming on a variety of substrates, particularly plastic ware. In some aspects, the compositions provide enhanced rinse benefits at low active levels due to the surfactant systems of the present invention employed therein. In one aspect, the composition comprises, consists of, or consists essentially of a surfactant system disclosed herein. In other aspects, the composition further comprises an additional nonionic surfactant and/or an additional functional ingredient.

Surfactant system

In one aspect, the surfactant system includes at least two alkoxylate surfactants. In one aspect, the surfactant system includes at least two alcohol alkoxylate surfactants. In one aspect, the surfactant system includes three alcohol alkoxylate surfactants. In other aspects, the surfactant system comprises a guerbet alcohol surfactant. Advantageously, the combination of surfactants provides a synergistic effect, thereby providing desirable sheeting, wetting and drying characteristics requiring reduced surfactant actives. As a further benefit, the surfactant system comprising a combination of surfactants with varying degrees of association provides the beneficial result of reduced or low foam or film-forming distribution, since the generation of highly and/or stable foams according to the present invention is undesirable.

Exemplary ranges of surfactants are shown in table 1 as weight percent of the surfactant system.

TABLE 1

In one aspect, the surfactant system comprises a surfactant A: R having the formula¹-O-(EO)_x3(PO)_y3-H, wherein R¹Is straight chain C₁₀-C₁₆Alkyl, and wherein x₃5-8, preferably 5.5-7, and wherein y₃2-5, preferably 2-3.5. In one aspect, the surfactant system comprises from about 5 to about 80 parts by weight of at least one surfactant of the formula R¹-O-(EO)_x3(PO)_y3Alkoxylates of-H, wherein R¹Is straight chain C₁₀-C₁₆Alkyl, and wherein x₃5-8, preferably 5.5-7, and wherein y₃2-5, preferably 2-3.5.

In one aspect, the surfactant system comprises surfactant A2: R having the formula¹-O-(EO)x₄(PO)y₄-H, wherein R¹Is straight chain C₁₀-C₁₆Alkyl, and wherein x₄4-8, preferably 4-5.5, and wherein y ₄2 to 5, preferably 3.5 to 5. In one aspect, the surfactant system comprises from about 5 to about 80 parts by weight of at least one surfactant of the formula R¹-O-(EO)x₄(PO)y₄Alkoxylates of-H, wherein R¹Is straight chain C₁₀-C₁₆Alkyl, and wherein x₄4-8, preferably 4-5.5, and wherein y ₄2 to 5, preferably 3.5 to 5.

In one aspect, the surfactant system comprises a surfactant having the formula B: R²-O-(EO)_x1-H, wherein R²Is C₁₀-C₁₄Alkyl, or preferably C₁₂-C₁₄Alkyl having an average of at least 1 branch per residue, or preferably at least 2 branches per residue, and wherein x₁5-10. In one aspect, the surfactant system comprises from about 0 to about 80 parts by weight of at least one surfactant of the formula R²-O-(EO)_x1Alkoxylates of-H, wherein R²Is C having an average of at least 2 branches per residue₁₂-C₁₄Alkyl, and wherein x₁5-10, preferably 5-8.

In one aspect, the surfactant system includes a surfactant having the formula C: R²-O-(EO)_x2-H, wherein R²Is C having an average of at least 1 branch per residue, or preferably at least 2 branches per residue₁₀-C₁₄Alkyl, or preferably C₁₂-C₁₄Alkyl, and wherein x₂2-4. In one aspectThe surfactant system comprises about 0 to about 80 parts by weight of at least one compound of the formula R²-O-(EO)_x2Alkoxylates of-H, wherein R²Is C having an average of at least 2 branches per residue₁₂-C₁₄Alkyl, and wherein x₂＝2-4。

In one aspect, the surfactant system comprises a surfactant having the formula D: R⁷-O-(PO)y₅(EO)x₅(PO)y₆Wherein R is⁷Is C₈-C₁₆Guerbet alcohol, preferably C_8-12Guerbet alcohol, or more preferably C₈-C₁₀Guerbet alcohol, wherein x₅5-30, preferably 9-22, wherein y₅1-5, preferably 1-4, and wherein y₆10-20. In one aspect, the surfactant system includes from about 0 to about 80 parts by weight of surfactant R⁷-O-(PO)y₅(EO)x₅(PO)y₆Wherein R is⁷Is a C8-C16 Guerbet alcohol wherein x₅5-30, preferably 9-22, wherein y₅1-5, preferably 1-4, and wherein y₆＝10-20。

In one aspect, the surfactant system includes a surfactant E: R having the formula⁶-O-(PO)y₄(EO)x₄Wherein R is⁶Is C₈-C₁₆Guerbet alcohol, preferably C_8-12Guerbet alcohol, or more preferably C₈-C₁₀Guerbet alcohol, wherein x₄2-10, preferably 3-8, where y₄1-2. In one aspect, the surfactant system includes from about 0 to about 80 parts by weight of surfactant R⁶-O-(PO)y₄(EO)x₄Wherein R is⁶Is C₈-C₁₆Guerbet alcohol, wherein x₄2-10, preferably 3-8, where y₄＝1-2。

In one aspect, the surfactant system comprises, consists of and/or consists essentially of

Comprising a surfactant A (R)¹-O-(EO)_x3(PO)_y3-H) and/or surfactant A2 (R)¹-O-(EO)x₄(PO)y₄in-H)A surfactant system of (a);

comprising a surfactant A (R)¹-O-(EO)_x3(PO)_y3-H) and/or surfactant A2 (R)¹-O-(EO)x₄(PO)y₄-H) and a surfactant B (R)²-O-(EO)_x1-H) a surfactant system of at least one of;

surfactant A (R)¹-O-(EO)_x3(PO)_y3-H) (or surfactant A2 (R)¹-O-(EO)x₄(PO)y₄-H)), surfactant B (R)²-O-(EO)_x1-H), surfactant C (R)²-O-(EO)_x2-H), surfactant D (R)⁷-O-(PO)y₅(EO)x₅(PO)y₆) And/or surfactant E (R)⁶-O-(PO)y₄(EO)x₄) Any combination of at least two alkoxylate surfactants of formula (la);

surfactant A (R)¹-O-(EO)_x3(PO)_y3-H) (or surfactant A2 (R)¹-O-(EO)x₄(PO)y₄-H)), surfactant B (R)²-O-(EO)_x1-H) and surfactant C (R)²-O-(EO)_x2-H)；

Surfactant A (R)¹-O-(EO)_x3(PO)_y3-H) (or surfactant A2 (R)¹-O-(EO)x₄(PO)y₄-H)), surfactant B (R)²-O-(EO)_x1-H) and a surfactant D (R)⁷-O-(PO)y₅(EO)x₅(PO)y₆)；

Surfactant A (R)¹-O-(EO)_x3(PO)_y3-H) (or surfactant A2 (R)¹-O-(EO)x₄(PO)y₄-H)), surfactant B (R)²-O-(EO)_x1-H), surfactant C (R)²-O-(EO)_x2-H) and a surfactant E (R)⁶-O-(PO)y₄(EO)x₄)；

Surfactant A (R)¹-O-(EO)_x3(PO)_y3-H) (or surfactant A2 (R)¹-O-(EO)x₄(PO)y₄-H)), surface activityAgent B (R)²-O-(EO)_x1-H), surfactant C (R)²-O-(EO)_x2-H) and a surfactant D (R)⁷-O-(PO)y₅(EO)x₅(PO)y₆)；

Surfactant A (R)¹-O-(EO)_x3(PO)_y3-H) (or surfactant A2 (R)¹-O-(EO)x₄(PO)y₄-H)), surfactant D (R)⁷-O-(PO)y₅(EO)x₅(PO)y₆) And surfactant g (EO) x6(PO) y7(EO) x 6;

surfactant B (R)²-O-(EO)_x1-H), surfactant C (R)²-O-(EO)_x2-H) and a surfactant E (R)⁶-O-(PO)y₄(EO)x₄)；

Surfactant B (R)²-O-(EO)_x1-H) and/or surfactant C (R)²-O-(EO)_x2-H), surfactant D (R)⁷-O-(PO)y₅(EO)x₅(PO)y₆) And surfactant E (R)⁶-O-(PO)y₄(EO)x₄)；

Surfactant B (R)²-O-(EO)_x1-H) and/or surfactant C (R)²-O-(EO)_x2-H), and a surfactant D (R)⁷-O-(PO)y₅(EO)x₅(PO)y₆) Surfactant E (R)⁶-O-(PO)y₄(EO)x₄) And surfactant A (R)¹-O-(EO)_x3(PO)_y3-H) (or surfactant A2 (R)¹-O-(EO)x₄(PO)y₄-H)); and/or

Surfactant D (R)⁷-O-(PO)y₅(EO)x₅(PO)y₆) And surfactant E (R)⁶-O-(PO)y₄(EO)x₄)；

Surfactant B (R)²-O-(EO)_x1-H) and a surfactant E (R)⁶-O-(PO)y₄(EO)x₄) (ii) a And/or

Surfactant g (EO) x6(PO) y7(EO) x6 in combination with any of the surfactant systems listed above. In particular aspects, for solid rinse aidsThe surfactant system of the composition may preferably comprise surfactant G ((EO) X6(PO) y7(EO) X6) (an EO-PO-EO block copolymer), wherein X₆Is 88-108 and Y₇Is 57 to 77.

In one aspect, in each of the above-mentioned surfactant systems, the desired sheeting, wetting and drying characteristics are achieved by formulations having desirable contact agent and foam profiles.

Exemplary surfactant systems are shown in table 2 in parts by weight of surfactant in the surfactant system, as shown in the various embodiments previously set forth above describing exemplary surfactant systems. According to an embodiment of the present invention, the surfactant system, shown in parts by weight of its surfactant, is diluted with water and/or other process aids to provide a liquid or solid concentrate composition. In another aspect, the liquid or solid concentrate composition comprising the surfactant system is further diluted into a use solution.

TABLE 2

In one aspect, a surfactant system particularly suitable for high temperature rinse aid compositions and application uses includes surfactant A (R)¹-O-(EO)_x3(PO)_y3-H) (or surfactant A2 (R)¹-O-(EO)x₄(PO)y₄-H)), surfactant B (R)²-O-(EO)_x1-H) and surfactant C (R)²-O-(EO)_x2-H). In another embodiment, surfactant E (R) is excluded from the high temperature rinse aid surfactant system⁶-O-(PO)y₄(EO)x₄). In another embodiment, for solid compositions, surfactant G ((EO) x6(PO) y7(EO) x6) (an EO-PO-EO block copolymer) is included.

In one embodiment, the surfactant system employing surfactant a (or surfactant a 2)/surfactant B is employed in a weight ratio of about 60/40 to about 40/60 or about 50/50.

In one embodiment, the surfactant system employing surfactant a (or surfactant a 2)/surfactant G is employed in a weight ratio of about 60/40 to about 40/60 or about 50/50.

In one embodiment, the surfactant system employing surfactant B/surfactant G is employed in a weight ratio of about 60/40 to about 40/60 or about 50/50.

In one embodiment, the surfactant system employing surfactant D/surfactant G is employed in a weight ratio of about 60/40 to about 40/60 or about 50/50.

In one embodiment, the surfactant system employing surfactant a (or surfactant a 2)/surfactant B/surfactant C is employed in a weight ratio of about 30/30/40 to about 45/45/10 or about 35/35/30 to about 40/40/20.

In another aspect, a surfactant system particularly suitable for low temperature rinse aid compositions and application uses includes surfactant A (R)¹-O-(EO)_x3(PO)_y3-H) (or surfactant A2 (R)¹-O-(EO)x₄(PO)y₄-H)), surfactant B (R)²-O-(EO)_x1-H) and a surfactant D (R)⁷-O-(PO)y₅(EO)x₅(PO)y₆) Combinations of (a) and (b). In another embodiment, surfactant E (R) is excluded from the low temperature rinse aid surfactant system⁶-O-(PO)y₄(EO)x₄). In another embodiment, for solid compositions, surfactant G ((EO) x6(PO) y7(EO) x6) (an EO-PO-EO block copolymer) is included.

In one embodiment, the surfactant system employing surfactant a (or surfactant a 2)/surfactant B/surfactant D is employed in a weight ratio of about 30/30/40 to about 45/45/10 or about 35/35/30 to about 40/40/20.

In one aspect, the surfactant system provides a desirable foam profile, as measured according to the grignard method, wherein a foam height of 5 inches or less, preferably less than 5 inches, more preferably from l to 5 inches, more preferably from 1 to 3 inches, and most preferably less than 1 inch of foam is achieved after 5 minutes.

In one aspect, the surfactant system reduces the contact angle of the composition on the surface of the substrate by between about 5 ° and about 10 °, or preferably between about 5 ° and about 20 °, or more preferably between about 10 ° and about 25 °, as compared to the contact angle of a commercially available rinse aid composition (i.e., a commercially available rinse aid composition that does not employ a combination of surfactant systems and alcohol alkoxylate surfactant ratios). In a preferred aspect, the surfactant system reduces the contact angle of the composition on the polypropylene surface by between about 5 ° and about 10 °, or preferably between about 5 ° and about 20 °, or more preferably between about 10 ° and about 25 °, as compared to the contact angle of a commercially available rinse aid composition. Without wishing to be bound by any particular theory, it is believed that the lower the contact angle, the more sheeting will be induced by the composition. That is, a composition with a lower contact angle will form a larger surface area droplet on the substrate than a composition with a higher contact angle. The increased surface area results in faster drying times and fewer spots formed on the substrate.

Figure 1 shows a two-variable fit (60ppm, 80 ℃) of the average contact angle (degrees) measured on polypropylene, confirming that the concentration of sheeting agent (ppm) required to completely sheet on a surface decreases as the contact angle of the rinse aid composition decreases. A comparison of a commercial rinse aid with various alcohol alkoxylate surfactant systems according to examples of the invention is shown. As shown, there is a linear fit between the reduction in contact angle of the surfactant system composition or rinse aid composition employing the surfactant system versus the reduction in sheeting aid concentration compared to a commercial rinse aid, illustrating the significant benefit of the present invention in providing a surfactant system with a contact angle reduction of between about 5 ° and about 10 ° or preferably between about 5 ° and about 20 ° or more preferably between about 10 ° and about 25 ° compared to the contact angle of a commercially available rinse aid composition (i.e., a commercially available rinse aid composition that does not employ a surfactant system according to embodiments of the present invention), while also being capable of providing such complete sheeting at low active levels. In some aspects, complete tableting requires 125ppm or less, or 100ppm or less, or 50ppm or less of surfactant system active agent.

In some embodiments, the alcohol alkoxylate surfactant is selected to have a surfactant system with certain environmentally friendly characteristics, and thus is suitable for use in the food service industry and/or the like. For example, certain alcohol alkoxylate surfactants may meet environmental or food service regulatory requirements, such as biodegradability requirements.

In one aspect, the surfactant system and compositions employing the surfactant system unexpectedly provide efficacy at lower dosages, i.e., using about 125ppm or less concentration or 100ppm or less or 50ppm or less of the surfactant system active agent, due to the synergy of the system. In one aspect, active agent concentrations below about 5% provide effective performance. The surfactant system allows for administration at lower active levels while providing at least substantially similar performance as further elaborated in the examples.

Additional nonionic surfactant

In some embodiments, the compositions of the present invention include an additional surfactant in combination with a surfactant system. Surfactants suitable for use with the compositions of the present invention include, but are not limited to, nonionic surfactants. In some embodiments, the surfactant system of the present invention comprises from about 1 part by weight to about 75 parts by weight of additional surfactant. In other embodiments, the compositions of the present invention include from about 5 parts by weight to about 50 parts by weight of additional surfactant. In other embodiments, the compositions of the present invention include from about 10 parts by weight to about 50 parts by weight of additional surfactant.

In some embodiments, rinse aid compositions employing the surfactant systems of the present invention include from about 1 wt-% to about 75 wt-% of additional surfactant. In other embodiments, the compositions of the present invention comprise from about 5 wt-% to about 50 wt-% of additional surfactant. In other embodiments, the compositions of the present invention comprise from about 10 wt-% to about 50 wt-% of additional surfactant.

Suitable nonionic surfactants are generally characterized by the presence of an organic hydrophobic group and an organic hydrophilic group and are typically produced by the condensation of an organic aliphatic, alkylaromatic or polyoxyalkylene hydrophobic compound with a hydrophilic basic oxide moiety, conventionally ethylene oxide or its polyhydration product polyethylene glycol. Almost any hydrophobic compound having a hydroxyl, carboxyl, amino or amide group containing a reactive hydrogen atom can be condensed with ethylene oxide or its polyhydrated adducts or its mixtures with alkylene oxides such as propylene oxide to form nonionic surfactants. The length of the hydrophilic polyoxyalkylene moiety condensed with any particular hydrophobic compound is readily adjusted to produce a water-dispersible or water-soluble compound having a desired balance between hydrophilic and hydrophobic properties. Suitable nonionic surfactants include

A block polyoxypropylene-polyoxyethylene polymeric compound (1) based on propylene glycol, ethylene glycol, glycerin, trimethylolpropane and ethylenediamine as initiator reactive hydrogen compounds. An example of a polymeric compound made from sequential propoxylation and ethoxylation of an initiator is available from BASF Corp. One class of compounds are difunctional (two reactive hydrogens) compounds formed by the condensation of ethylene oxide with a hydrophobic base formed by the addition of propylene oxide to the two hydroxyl groups of propylene glycol. This hydrophobic portion of the molecule is about 1,000 to about 4,000 by weight. Ethylene oxide is then added to sandwich this hydrophobe between hydrophilic groups, carefully controlled by length to account for about 10 to about 80 weight percent of the final molecule. Another class of compounds are tetrafunctional block copolymers obtained by the sequential addition of propylene oxide and ethylene oxide to ethylenediamine. The molecular weight of the propylene oxide hydrophobe is in the range of from about 500 to about 7,000; and the hydrophilic species is ethylene oxide added to constitute from about 10 to about 80 weight percent of the molecule.

The condensation product of one mole of an alkylphenol in which the alkyl chain has a straight or branched configuration or has a mono-or di-alkyl composition, containing from about 8 to about 18 carbon atoms (2), with from about 3 to about 50 moles of ethylene oxide. Alkyl representatives may be, for example, diisobutylene, dipentyl, polymeric propylene, isooctyl, nonyl and dinonyl. These surfactants may be polyoxyethylene, polyoxy-oxyethylene of alkyl phenolPropylene oxide and polybutylene oxide condensates. Examples of commercial compounds having this chemistry are available on the market under the trade name

And

the method comprises the following steps of (1) obtaining,

manufactured by Rhone-Poulenc,

manufactured by Union Carbide.

The condensation product (3) of one mole of a saturated or unsaturated, linear or branched alcohol having from about 6 to about 24 carbon atoms with from about 3 to about 50 moles of ethylene oxide. The alcohol moiety may consist of a mixture of alcohols in the carbon range delineated above, or it may consist of alcohols having a particular number of carbon atoms within this range. Examples of similar commercial surfactants can be found under the trade name Lutensol^TM、Dehydol^TM、Neodol^TMAnd Alfonic^TMObtained by^TM、Dehydol^TMMade by basf, Neodol^TMAlfonic, manufactured by Shell Chemical Co^TMManufactured by Vista Chemical company.

The condensation product (4) of one mole of a saturated or unsaturated, linear or branched carboxylic acid having from about 8 to about 18 carbon atoms with from about 6 to about 50 moles of ethylene oxide. The acid moiety may consist of a mixture of acids within the carbon atom ranges defined hereinabove, or it may consist of an acid having a specific number of carbon atoms within the ranges. Examples of commercial compounds having this chemistry are commercially available under the trade names Disponil or Agnique and Lipopeg^TMDisponil and Agnique, manufactured by BASF, Lipopeg^TMManufactured by Lipo Chemicals.

In addition to ethoxylated carboxylic acids, commonly referred to as polyethylene glycol esters, other alkanoic acid esters formed by reaction with glycerides, glycerin, and polyhydric (saccharide or sorbitan/sorbitol) alcohols are also suitable for use in certain embodiments of the present invention, particularly indirect food additive applications. All of these ester moieties have one or more reactive hydrogen sites on their molecule that can undergo further acylation or ethylene oxide (alkoxide) addition, thereby controlling the hydrophilicity of these materials. In adding these fatty esters or acylated carbohydrates to the compositions of the present invention containing amylase and/or lipase, special care must be taken because of potential incompatibility.

Examples of the nonionic low-foaming surfactant include:

the compound from (1) modified by the addition of ethylene oxide to ethylene glycol to provide a hydrophilic species of indicated molecular weight, followed by the addition of propylene oxide to obtain a hydrophobic block on the outside (terminal) of the molecule, essentially the opposite. The hydrophobic portion of the molecule has a molecular weight of from about 1,000 to about 3,100, with the intermediate hydrophilic species comprising from 10% to about 80% by weight of the final molecule. These inverse Pluronics^TMManufactured by basf under the trade name Pluronic^TMAnd (3) an R surfactant. Likewise, Tetronic^TMThe R surfactant is produced by basf by the sequential addition of ethylene oxide and propylene oxide to ethylenediamine. The hydrophobic portion of the molecule has a molecular weight of from about 2,100 to about 6,700, with the intermediate hydrophilic species constituting from 10 to 80 weight percent of the final molecule.

A compound from group (1), group (2), group (3), and group (4) modified by: the terminal hydroxyl groups (of the polyfunctional moiety) are "capped" or "capped" by reaction with hydrophobic small molecules such as propylene oxide, butylene oxide, benzyl chloride, and the like, as well as short chain fatty acids containing from 1 to about 5 carbon atoms, alcohols or alkyl halides, and mixtures thereof, thereby reducing foaming. Also included are reactants such as thionyl chloride which converts the terminal hydroxyl group to a chloro group. This modification to the terminal hydroxyl groups can result in fully blocked, block-mixed, or fully mixed nonionic surfactants.

Additional examples of effective low-foaming nonionic surfactants include:

alkylphenoxypolyethoxyalkanols of U.S. patent No. 2,903,486 issued to Brown et al on 8.9.1959 and represented by the formula:

wherein R is an alkyl group having 8 to 9 carbon atoms, a is an alkylene chain having 3 to 4 carbon atoms, n is an integer of 7 to 16, and m is an integer of 1 to 10.

U.S. patent No. 3,048,548 issued to Martin et al on 8/7 in 1962, has alternating hydrophilic oxyethylene chains and hydrophobic oxypropylene chains wherein the weight of the terminal hydrophobic chains, the weight of the intermediate hydrophobic units and the weight of the linking hydrophilic units each account for about one third of the condensate.

A defoaming nonionic surfactant disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 3,382,178 issued to Lissant et al on 5/7/1968 and having the general formula Z [ (OR)_nOH]_zWherein Z is an oxyalkylatable species, R is a radical derived from an alkylene oxide which may be ethylene and propylene, and n is an integer of, for example, 10 to 2,000 or more, and Z is an integer determined by the number of reactive oxyalkylatable groups.

Conjugated polyoxyalkylene compounds described in U.S. patent No. 2,677,700 to Jackson et al, 5, 4, 1954, correspond to the formula Y (C)₃H₆O)_n(C₂H₄O)_mH, wherein Y is the residue of an organic compound having from about 1 to 6 carbon atoms and one reactive hydrogen atom, n has an average value of at least about 6.4, as determined by the number of hydroxyl groups, and m has a value such that the oxyethylene moieties comprise from about 10 to about 90 weight percent of the molecule.

A conjugated polyoxyalkylene compound described in U.S. Pat. No. 2,674,619 issued 4/6/1954 to Lundsted et al has the formula Y [ (C)₃H₆O_n(C₂H₄O)_mH]_xWherein Y is the residue of an organic compound having from about 2 to 6 carbon atoms and containing x reactive hydrogen atoms, wherein x has a value of at least about 2, n has a value such that the molecular weight of the polyoxypropylene hydrophobic base is at least about 900 and m has a value such that the oxyethylene content of the molecule is from about 10% to about 90% by weight. Compounds falling within the definition of Y include, for example, propylene glycol, glycerol, pentaerythritol, trimethylolpropane, ethylenediamine, and the like. The oxypropylene chains optionally but advantageously contain small amounts of ethylene oxide, and the oxyethylene chains also optionally but advantageously contain small amounts of propylene oxide.

Additional conjugated polyoxyalkylene surfactants suitable for use in the compositions of the present invention correspond to the formula P [ (C)₃H₆O)_n(C₂H₄O)_mH]_xWherein P is the residue of an organic compound having from about 8 to 18 carbon atoms and containing x reactive hydrogen atoms, wherein x has a value of 1 or 2, the value of n is such that the molecular weight of the polyoxyethylene moiety is at least about 44 and the value of m is such that the oxypropylene content of the molecule is from about 10% to about 90% by weight. In either case, the oxypropylene chains may optionally but advantageously contain small amounts of ethylene oxide, and the oxyethylene chains may also optionally but advantageously contain small amounts of propylene oxide.

Polyhydroxy fatty acid amide surfactants suitable for use in the compositions of the present invention include those having the formula R₂CONR₁Z polyhydroxy fatty acid amide surfactants wherein R1 is H, C₁-C₄Hydrocarbyl, 2-hydroxyethyl, 2-hydroxypropyl, ethoxy, propoxy, or mixtures thereof; r₂Is C₅-C₃₁A hydrocarbyl group, which may be linear; and Z is a polyhydroxyhydrocarbyl having a linear hydrocarbyl chain with at least 3 hydroxyl groups directly attached to the chain, or an alkoxylated derivative (preferably ethoxylated or propoxylated) thereof. Z can be obtained from a reducing sugar in a reductive amination reaction; such as a glycidyl moiety.

Alkyl ethoxylate condensation products of fatty alcohols with from about 0 to about 25 moles of ethylene oxide are suitable for use in the compositions of the present invention. The alkyl chain of the aliphatic alcohol may be a linear or branched primary or secondary alkyl group and typically contains from 6 to 22 carbon atoms.

Ethoxylation C₆-C₁₈Fatty alcohols and C₆-C₁₈Mixed ethoxylated and propoxylated fatty alcohols are suitable surfactants for use in the compositions of the present invention, especially water soluble compositions. Suitable ethoxylated fatty alcohols include C with a degree of ethoxylation of from 3 to 50₆-C₁₈An ethoxylated fatty alcohol.

Suitable nonionic alkyl polysaccharide surfactants particularly useful in the compositions of the present invention include the nonionic alkyl polysaccharide surfactants disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,565,647 to Llenado, 1/21, 1986. These surfactants include hydrophobic groups containing from about 6 to about 30 carbon atoms; and polysaccharides, such as polyglycoside hydrophilic groups containing from about 1.3 to about 10 saccharide units. Any reducing sugar containing 5 or 6 carbon atoms can be used, for example the glucosyl moiety can be replaced by glucose, galactose and galactosyl moieties. (optionally, a hydrophobic group is attached at 2, 3,4, etc. positions, thus giving a glucose or galactose as opposed to a glucoside or galactoside.) the intersugar linkage may for example be between one position of the further sugar unit and the 2, 3,4 and/or 6 position on the preceding sugar unit.

Fatty acid amide surfactants suitable for use in the compositions of the present invention include fatty acid amide surfactants having the formula R₆CON(R₇)₂Wherein R is₆Is an alkyl group containing 7 to 21 carbon atoms and each R₇Independently of each other is hydrogen, C₁-C₄Alkyl radical, C₁-C₄Hydroxyalkyl or- - (C)₂H₄O)_XH, wherein x is in the range of 1 to 3.

One class of suitable nonionic surfactants includes the class of surfactants defined as alkoxylated amines or most particularly alcohol alkoxylated/aminated/alkoxylated surfactants. These nonionic surfactants may be represented at least in part by the general formula R²⁰--(PO)_SN--(EO)_tH、R²⁰--(PO)_SN--(EO)_tH(EO)_tH and R²⁰--N(EO)_tH; wherein R is²⁰Is an alkyl, alkenyl or other aliphatic group, or an alkyl-aryl group having 8 to 20, preferably 12 to 14 carbon atoms, EO is ethylene oxide, PO is propylene oxide, s is 1 to 20, preferably 2 to 5, t is 1 to 10, preferably 2 to 5, and u is 1 to 10, preferably 2 to 5. Other variations within the scope of these compounds may be represented by the following alternative formula R²⁰--(PO)_V--N[(EO)_wH][(EO)_zH]Wherein R is²⁰As defined above, v is 1 to 20 (e.g. 1, 2, 3 or 4 (preferably 2)), and w and z are independently 1 to 10, preferably 2 to 5. Commercial representatives of these compounds are the product lines sold by Huntsman Chemicals as nonionic surfactants. Preferred chemicals of this class include Surfonic^TMPEA 25 amine alkoxylates. Preferred nonionic surfactants for use in the compositions of the present invention include alcohol alkoxylates, EO/PO block copolymers, alkylphenol alkoxylates, and the like.

Paper "Nonionic Surfactants", compiled by Schick, m.j., volume 1 of the surfactant science series, Marcel Dekker, new york, 1983, is a good reference for a wide variety of Nonionic compounds commonly used in the practice of the present invention. A typical list of nonionic classes and types of these surfactants is given in U.S. patent No. 3,929,678 to Laughlin and heurin, 12/30 of 1975. Other examples are provided in surfactants and detergents, volumes I and II, Schwartz, Perry and Berch.

Additional polymeric surfactant

As set forth with respect to additional nonionic surfactants that may be included in compositions containing the surfactant systems of the present invention. Exemplary additional polymeric surfactants preferred for use in the surfactant system according to the present invention are set forth in table 3.

TABLE 3

Surfactant A (R)¹-O-(EO)_x3(PO)_y3-H) (or surfactant A2 (R)¹-O-(EO)x₄(PO)y₄-H)), surfactant B (R)²-O-(EO)_x1-H), surfactant C (R)²-O-(EO)_x2-H), surfactant D (R)⁷-O-(PO)y₅(EO)x₅(PO)y₆) Surfactant E (R)⁶-O-(PO)y₄(EO)x₄) Any combination of at least two alkoxylate surfactants of formula (la) and/or at least one polymeric surfactant selected from the group consisting of surfactant F, G, H, I, J and/or combinations thereof;

surfactant A (R)¹-O-(EO)_x3(PO)_y3-H) (or surfactant A2 (R)¹-O-(EO)x₄(PO)y₄-H)), surfactant B (R)²-O-(EO)_x1-H), surfactant C (R)²-O-(EO)_x2-H), surfactant D (R)⁷-O-(PO)y₅(EO)x₅(PO)y₆) And/or surfactant E (R)⁶-O-(PO)y₄(EO)x₄) Any combination of at least two alkoxylate surfactants of formula (a) with optionally at least one polymeric surfactant selected from the group consisting of surfactant F, G, H, I, J and/or combinations thereof;

surfactant A (R)¹-O-(EO)_x3(PO)_y3-H) (or surfactant A2 (R)¹-O-(EO)x₄(PO)y₄-H)), surfactant B (R)²-O-(EO)_x1-H) and surfactant C (R)²-O-(EO)_x2-H) and optionally at least one polymeric surfactant selected from the group consisting of surfactant F, G, H, I, J and/or combinations thereof;

surfactant A (R)¹-O-(EO)_x3(PO)_y3-H) (or surfactant A2 (R)¹-O-(EO)x₄(PO)y₄-H)), surfactant B (R)²-O-(EO)_x1-H) and a surfactant D (R)⁷-O-(PO)y₅(EO)x₅(PO)y₆) And optionally at least one polymeric surfactant selected from the group consisting of surfactant F, G, H, I, J and/or combinations thereof;

surfactant A (R)¹-O-(EO)_x3(PO)_y3-H) (or surfactant A2 (R)¹-O-(EO)x₄(PO)y₄-H)), surfactant B (R)²-O-(EO)_x1-H), surfactant C (R)²-O-(EO)_x2-H) and a surfactant E (R)⁶-O-(PO)y₄(EO)x₄) And optionally at least one polymeric surfactant selected from the group consisting of surfactant F, G, H, I, J and/or combinations thereof;

surfactant A (R)¹-O-(EO)_x3(PO)_y3-H) (or surfactant A2 (R)¹-O-(EO)x₄(PO)y₄-H)), surfactant B (R)²-O-(EO)_x1-H), surfactant C (R)²-O-(EO)_x2-H) and a surfactant D (R)⁷-O-(PO)y₅(EO)x₅(PO)y₆) And optionally at least one polymeric surfactant selected from the group consisting of surfactant F, G, H, I, J and/or combinations thereof;

surfactant B (R)²-O-(EO)_x1-H), surfactant C (R)²-O-(EO)_x2-H) and a surfactant E (R)⁶-O-(PO)y₄(EO)x₄) And optionally at least one polymeric surfactant selected from the group consisting of surfactant F, G, H, I, J and/or combinations thereof;

surfactant B (R)²-O-(EO)_x1-H) and/or surfactant C (R)²-O-(EO)_x2-H), surfactant D (R)⁷-O-(PO)y₅(EO)x₅(PO)y₆) And surfactant E (R)⁶-O-(PO)y₄(EO)x₄) And optionally at least one polymeric surfactant selected from the group consisting of surfactant F, G, H, I, J and/or combinations thereof;

surfactant B (R)²-O-(EO)_x1-H) and/or surfactant C (R)²-O-(EO)_x2-H), and a surfactant D (R)⁷-O-(PO)y₅(EO)x₅(PO)y₆) Surfactant E (R)⁶-O-(PO)y₄(EO)x₄) And surfactant A (R)¹-O-(EO)_x3(PO)_y3-H) (or surfactant A2 (R)¹-O-(EO)x₄(PO)y₄-H)) and optionally at least one polymeric surfactant selected from the group consisting of surfactant F, G, H, I, J and/or combinations thereof;

surfactant D (R)⁷-O-(PO)y₅(EO)x₅(PO)y₆) And surfactant E (R)⁶-O-(PO)y₄(EO)x₄) And optionally at least one polymeric surfactant selected from the group consisting of surfactant F, G, H, I, J and/or combinations thereof;

surfactant B (R)²-O-(EO)_x1-H) and a surfactant E (R)⁶-O-(PO)y₄(EO)x₄) And optionally at least one polymeric surfactant selected from the group consisting of surfactant F, G, H, I, J and/or combinations thereof;

Surfactant system and compositions employing the same

Typically, the surfactant system and compositions employing the surfactant system are formulated as liquid or solid formulations. The surfactant system and composition are formulated to include components suitable for use in the food service industry, such as GRAS ingredients, part list available at 21CFR 184. In some embodiments, the surfactant system and composition is formulated to include only GRAS ingredients. In other embodiments, the surfactant system and composition is formulated to include GRAS and biodegradable ingredients.

The surfactant system in use solution and the composition employing the surfactant system preferably have a pH of 8.5 or less, 8.3 or less, or 7 or less.

Due to the synergistic effect of the system according to the benefits of the present invention, the surfactant system in use solution and the composition employing the surfactant system preferably has a surfactant system active concentration of about 125ppm or less or 100ppm or less or 50ppm or less. The surfactant system and compositions employing the surfactant system allow for administration at lower active levels while providing at least substantially similar performance. In one aspect, a rinse aid composition employing a surfactant system, particularly suitable for high temperature applications, includes a surfactant system comprising surfactant A (R)¹-O-(EO)_x3(PO)_y3-H) (or surfactant A2 (R)¹-O-(EO)x₄(PO)y₄-H)), surfactant B (R)²-O-(EO)_x1-H) and optionally a surfactant C (R)²-O-(EO)_x2-H). In one embodiment, the surfactant system employing surfactant a (or surfactant a 2)/surfactant B is employed in a weight ratio of about 60/40 to about 40/60 or about 50/50. In one embodiment, the surfactant system employing surfactant a (or surfactant a 2)/surfactant B/surfactant C is employed in a weight ratio of about 30/30/40 to about 45/45/10 or about 35/35/30 to about 40/40/20.

In another embodiment, surfactant E (R) is excluded from the high temperature rinse aid surfactant system⁶-O-(PO)y₄(EO)x₄). In another embodiment, for solid compositions, surfactant G ((EO) x6(PO) y7(EO) x6) (an EO-PO-EO block copolymer) is included. Each additional embodiment of the surfactant system can be further used in a rinse aid composition.

In one aspect, particularly suited for low temperature rinse aidRinse aid compositions for agent applications employing surfactant systems include a surfactant system comprising surfactant A (R)¹-O-(EO)_x3(PO)_y3-H) (or surfactant A2 (R)¹-O-(EO)x₄(PO)y₄-H)), surfactant B (R)²-O-(EO)_x1-H) and a surfactant D (R)⁷-O-(PO)y₅(EO)x₅(PO)y₆) Combinations of (a) and (b). In one embodiment, the surfactant system employing surfactant a (or surfactant a 2)/surfactant B/surfactant D is employed in a weight ratio of about 30/30/40 to about 45/45/10 or about 35/35/30 to about 40/40/20.

In another embodiment, surfactant E (R) is excluded from the low temperature rinse aid surfactant system⁶-O-(PO)y₄(EO)x₄). In another embodiment, for solid compositions, surfactant G ((EO) x6(PO) y7(EO) x6) (an EO-PO-EO block copolymer) is included.

In each aspect of the rinse aid composition, at least one additional functional ingredient is included in the surfactant system. The combination of the surfactant system with the additional functional ingredient provides a foam profile of the composition having a foam height of less than 5 inches after 5 minutes using the grignard method. In another aspect, the combination of surfactant system and additional functional ingredients is plastic compatible, providing sheeting, wetting and drying characteristics that are at least equal to or better than commercially available rinse aid compositions at lower ppm surfactant system active.

Additional functional ingredients

The components of the surfactant system composition may be further combined with a variety of functional components suitable for use in rinse aid applications, warewashing applications, and other applications requiring surface sheeting, wetting, and quick drying. In some embodiments, the surfactant system composition comprising the surfactant system and additional nonionic surfactant comprises a majority amount or even substantially all of the total weight of the composition. For example, in some embodiments, few or no additional functional components are placed therein. In other embodiments, additional functional ingredients may be included in the composition to provide desired characteristics and functionality to the composition. For the purposes of this application, the term "functional ingredient" includes materials that provide beneficial properties for a particular use when dispersed or dissolved in a use and/or concentrate solution, such as an aqueous solution. Some specific examples of functional materials are discussed in more detail below, although the specific materials discussed are given as examples only, and a wide variety of other functional ingredients may be used. For example, many of the functional materials discussed below refer to materials used in rinsing and cleaning applications. However, other embodiments may include functional ingredients for other applications.

In some embodiments, the composition does not include an antifoaming agent. In other embodiments, the composition comprises less than about 30 wt-% or less than about 20 wt-% defoaming surfactant or defoamer, or less than about 10 wt-% defoaming surfactant or defoamer, or preferably less than about 5 wt-% defoaming surfactant or defoamer to provide an effective amount of the defoamer component configured to reduce the stability of foam that may be generated by the surfactant system. Exemplary defoamers include, for example, nonionic EO-containing surfactants that are hydrophilic and water soluble at relatively low temperatures, e.g., temperatures below the temperature at which the rinse aid will be used. Without being limited to a particular mechanism of action, including the detergent antifoam may interact negatively with the surfactant system, as increased amounts of antifoam prove to have a countering effect that reduces efficacy by interfering with wetting and sheeting in the surfactant system according to the present invention.

In other embodiments, the compositions may include a carrier, a water conditioner including a rinse aid polymer, a binder for solidification, an anti-redeposition agent, an antimicrobial agent, a bleach and/or activator, a solubility modifier, a dispersant, a rinse aid, a metal protectant, a stabilizer, a corrosion inhibitor, a sequestrant and/or chelator, a builder, a fragrance and/or dye, a humectant, a rheology modifier or thickener, a hardener, a solidification agent, a hydrotrope or coupling agent, a buffer, a solvent, a pH buffer, a cleaning enzyme, a carrier, a processing aid, a solvent for a liquid formulation, or others.

In an exemplary embodiment, a solid rinse aid composition according to the present invention comprises from about 10 wt-% to about 80 wt-% of a surfactant system, from about 10 wt-% to about 80 wt-% of a solidification aid, from about 0 wt-% to about 10 wt-% of a water quality conditioner, from about 0 wt-% to about 10 wt-% of a chelating agent, from about 0 wt-% to about 20 wt-% of an acidifying agent, from about 0 wt-% to about 5 wt-% of water, and from about 0 wt-% to about 2 wt-% of a preservative and/or dye.

In another exemplary embodiment, a solid rinse aid composition according to the present disclosure includes from about 10 wt-% to about 65 wt-% of a surfactant system, from about 20 wt-% to about 60 wt-% of a solidification aid, from about 0 wt-% to about 8 wt-% of a water quality conditioner, from about 0 wt-% to about 5 wt-% of a chelating agent, from about 0 wt-% to about 15 wt-% of an acidifying agent, from about 0 wt-% to about 5 wt-% of water, and from about 0 wt-% to about 2 wt-% of a preservative and/or dye.

In another exemplary embodiment, a solid rinse aid composition according to the present disclosure includes from about 5 wt-% to about 30 wt-% of a surfactant system, from about 25 wt-% to about 65 wt-% of a solidification aid, from about 0 wt-% to about 5 wt-% of a water quality conditioner, from about 0 wt-% to about 3 wt-% of a chelating agent, from about 0 wt-% to about 10 wt-% of an acidifying agent, from about 0 wt-% to about 5 wt-% of water, and from about 0 wt-% to about 2 wt-% of a preservative and/or dye.

In another exemplary embodiment, a liquid rinse aid composition according to the present disclosure includes from about 2 wt-% to about 90 wt-% surfactant system, from about 0 wt-% to about 40 wt-% coupling agent, from about 0 wt-% to about 10 wt-% water conditioning agent, from about 0 wt-% to about 10 wt-% chelating agent, from about 0 wt-% to about 15 wt-% acidulant, from about 0 wt-% to about 95 wt-% water, and from about 0 wt-% to about 2 wt-% preservative and/or dye.

In another exemplary embodiment, a liquid rinse aid composition according to the present disclosure includes from about 2 wt-% to about 60 wt-% surfactant system, from about 0 wt-% to about 15 wt-% coupling agent, from about 0 wt-% to about 8 wt-% water conditioning agent, from about 0 wt-% to about 8 wt-% chelating agent, from about 0 wt-% to about 10 wt-% acidulant, from about 0 wt-% to about 80 wt-% water, and from about 0 wt-% to about 2 wt-% preservative and/or dye.

In another exemplary embodiment, a liquid rinse aid composition according to the present disclosure includes from about 2 wt-% to about 20 wt-% of a surfactant system, from about 0 wt-% to about 15 wt-% of a coupling agent, from about 0 wt-% to about 6 wt-% of a water quality conditioner, from about 0 wt-% to about 6 wt-% of a chelating agent, from about 0 wt-% to about 10 wt-% of an acidifying agent, from about 0 wt-% to about 80 wt-% of water, and from about 0 wt-% to about 2 wt-% of a preservative and/or dye.

Carrier

In some embodiments, the compositions of the present invention are formulated as liquid compositions. A carrier may be included in such liquid formulations. Any carrier suitable for use in the wetting agent composition can be used in the present invention. For example, in some embodiments, the composition includes water as the carrier.

In some embodiments, a liquid composition according to the present invention will contain up to about 98 wt% water, up to 95 wt% water, and typically up to about 90 wt%. In other embodiments, the liquid composition will contain at least 50 wt% water or at least 60 wt% water as the carrier.

In other embodiments, the composition may include the coupling agent in an amount ranging up to about 80 wt-%, up to about 60 wt-%, up to about 40 wt-%, up to about 20 wt-%, up to about 15 wt-%, or up to about 10 wt-%.

Hydrotrope

In some embodiments, the compositions of the present invention may include a hydrotrope. Hydrotropes can be used to help maintain the solubility of the tableting or wetting agents. The aqueous solution may also be modified with a hydrotrope to improve the solubility of the organic material. In some embodiments, the hydrotrope is a low molecular weight aromatic sulfonate material, such as xylene sulfonate, dialkyl diphenyl oxide sulfonate material, and cumene sulfonate.

The hydrotrope or hydrotrope combination may be present in the composition in an amount of about 1 wt% to about 50 wt%. In other embodiments, the hydrotrope or hydrotrope combination may be present from about 10 wt% to about 30 wt% of the composition.

Hardening/setting/solubility modifiers

In some embodiments, the compositions of the present invention may include wetting agents and/or hardening agents (or coagulants), such as amides, e.g., stearic acid monoethanolamide or lauric acid diethanolamide or alkylamides, and the like; solid polyethylene glycol, urea or solid EO/PO block copolymer, and the like; water-soluble starch has been made by acid or alkali treatment; various inorganic substances that impart a setting property to the heated composition upon cooling, and the like. Such compounds may also alter the solubility of the composition in aqueous media during use, such that wetting agents and/or other active ingredients may be dispensed from the solid composition over an extended period of time.

In some embodiments, the coagulant comprises a short chain alkylbenzene and/or alkylnaphthalene sulfonate, preferably Sodium Xylene Sulfonate (SXS). In some embodiments, SXS is used as a dual purpose material because it acts as a coupling agent in solution, and also acts as a coagulant as a powder.

The hardener or coagulant may include one or more of the following: sodium xylene sulfonate, sodium toluene sulfonate, sodium cumene sulfonate, potassium toluene sulfonate, ammonium xylene sulfonate, calcium xylene sulfonate, sodium alkyl naphthalene sulfonate, and sodium butyl naphthalene sulfonate. In one aspect of the invention, the class of short-chain alkylbenzene or alkylnaphthalene hydrotropes includes toluene-, xylene-and cumene-based alkylbenzene sulfonates, as well as alkylnaphthalene sulfonates. Sodium toluene sulfonate and sodium xylene sulfonate are the best known hydrotropes. In a preferred embodiment, the coagulant is SXS.

The composition may include a solidification aid in an amount ranging up to about 80 wt-%, from about 10 wt-% to about 80 wt-%, or up to about 50 wt-%. The composition can include a solubility modifier in the range of about 20 wt-% to about 40 wt-% or about 5 to about 15 wt-%.

Water quality regulator

In some embodiments, the compositions of the present invention may include a water quality modifier. Carboxylates such as citrate, tartrate or gluconate are suitable. The water conditioning polymer may be used as a non-phosphorous containing builder. Exemplary water quality adjusting polymers include (but are not limited to)In (c): polycarboxylate. Exemplary polycarboxylates that may be used as builders and/or water conditioning polymers include, but are not limited to, polycarboxylates having pendant carboxylate (- -CO)₂-) groups, such as polyacrylic acid, maleic acid/olefin copolymers, sulfonated copolymers or terpolymers, acrylic acid/maleic acid copolymers, polymethacrylic acid, acrylic acid-methacrylic acid copolymers, hydrolyzed polyacrylamides, hydrolyzed polymethacrylamides, hydrolyzed polyamide-methacrylamide copolymers, hydrolyzed polyacrylonitriles, hydrolyzed polymethacrylonitriles, and hydrolyzed acrylonitrile-methacrylonitrile copolymers. For further discussion of water quality modifiers see Kirk-Othmer, Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology, third edition, volume 5, pages 339, and 23, pages 319 and 320, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. The composition may include a water quality adjusting agent in an amount ranging up to about 15 wt-%, up to about 10 wt-%, or up to about 5 wt-%.

Acidifying agent

In some embodiments, the compositions of the present invention may include an acidifying agent or other pH buffer, among others. The composition may be formulated such that the rinse water will have a desired pH during use in an aqueous operation, for example, in an aqueous cleaning operation. For example, compositions designed for rinsing may be formulated such that during use in an aqueous rinsing operation, the rinse water will have a pH in the range of 8.5 or lower, 8.3 or lower, or 7 or lower. In other aspects, the pH is about 3 to about 5, or in the range of about 5 to about 8.5. In some embodiments, the liquid product formulation has a pH in the range of about 2 to about 4, or in the range of about 4 to about 9. Techniques for controlling the pH at the recommended usage level include the use of buffers, bases, acids, and the like, and are well known to those skilled in the art. One example of an acid suitable for controlling pH includes citric acid, hydrochloric acid, phosphoric acid, sodium bicarbonate, protonated forms of phosphonates, sodium benzoate, and gluconic acid. The composition can include acidulant water in an amount ranging up to about 20 wt-%, up to about 15 wt-%, up to about 10 wt-%, or up to about 5 wt-%.

Chelating/sequestering agents

In some embodiments, the compositions of the present invention may include one or more chelating/sequestering agents, which may also be referred to as builders. The chelating/sequestering agent may include, for example, aminocarboxylic acids, aminocarboxylate salts and derivatives thereof, condensed phosphate salts, phosphonate salts, polyacrylic salts, and mixtures and derivatives thereof. In general, a chelating agent is a molecule that is capable of coordinating with (i.e., binding to) metal ions commonly found in natural water to prevent the metal ions from interfering with the action of wetting agents or other detergent ingredients of other cleaning compositions. The chelating/sequestering agent, when included in an effective amount, can also serve as a threshold agent.

The composition may include a phosphonate, such as l-hydroxyethane-1, 1-diphosphonic acid CH₃C(OH)[PO(OH)₂]₂(ii) a Amino tri (methylene phosphonic acid) N [ CH₂PO(OH)₂]₃(ii) a Aminotris (methylenephosphonic acid) sodium salt; 2-hydroxyethyliminobis (methylenephosphonic acid) HOCH₂CH₂N[CH₂PO(OH)₂]₂(ii) a Diethylene triamine penta (methylene phosphonic acid) (HO)₂POCH₂N[CH₂N[CH₂PO(OH)₂]₂]₂(ii) a Diethylenetriamine penta (methylenephosphonic acid) sodium salt C₉H_(28-x)N₃Na_xO₁₅P₅(x ═ 7); hexamethylenediamine (tetramethylenephosphonic acid) potassium salt C₁₀H_(28-x)N₂K_xO₁₂P₄(x ═ 6); bis (hexamethylene) triamine (pentamethylene phosphonic acid) (HO)₂)POCH₂N[(CH₂)₆N[CH₂PO(OH)₂]₂]₂(ii) a And phosphoric acid H₃PO₃. In some embodiments, combinations of phosphonates, such as ATMP and DTPMP, may be used. When a phosphonate is added, a neutralized or alkaline phosphonate or a combination of the phosphonate and an alkali metal source may be used prior to addition to the mixture such that little or no heat or gas is generated by the neutralization reaction. Some examples of polymeric polycarboxylates suitable for use as sequestering agents include those having pendant carboxylate groups (A)--CO₂) And include, for example, polyacrylic acid, maleic acid/olefin copolymers, acrylic acid/maleic acid copolymers, polymethacrylic acid, acrylic acid-methacrylic acid copolymers, hydrolyzed polyacrylamides, hydrolyzed polymethacrylamides, hydrolyzed polyamide-methacrylamide copolymers, hydrolyzed polyacrylonitriles, hydrolyzed polymethacrylonitriles, hydrolyzed acrylonitrile-methacrylonitrile copolymers, and the like.

The composition may include an aminocarboxylate or a derivative thereof, including for example the trademarks available from basf

The following sodium aminocarboxylates. Biodegradable aminocarboxylates or derivatives thereof may also be included in the compositions, including for example those available under the trademark BASF

An aminocarboxylic acid ester or a derivative thereof obtainable as follows.

In some embodiments, the composition may comprise a chelating/sequestering agent in the range of up to about 70 wt-%, or in the range of about 0.1 to about 60 wt-%, or about 0.1 to about 5.0 wt-%. In some embodiments, the compositions of the present invention comprise less than about 1.0 wt-% or less than about 0.5 wt-% of chelating/sequestering agents. In other embodiments, the composition may include the chelating/sequestering agent in an amount ranging up to about 10 wt-% or up to about 5 wt-%.

Antimicrobial/disinfectant

In some embodiments, the compositions of the present invention may include an antimicrobial agent. The antimicrobial agent may be provided in various ways. For example, in some embodiments, the antimicrobial agent is included as part of the wetting agent composition. In other embodiments, the antimicrobial agent may be included as a separate component of the composition, including the humectant composition.

Antimicrobial agents are chemical compositions that can be used in functional materials to prevent microbial contamination and deterioration of material systems, surfaces, and the like. Generally, these materials fall into specific classes, including phenolics, halogen compounds, quaternary ammonium compounds, metal derivatives, amines, alkanolamines, nitro derivatives, anilinides, organic sulfur and sulfur-nitrogen compounds, and miscellaneous compounds.

In some embodiments, antimicrobial agents suitable for use with the surfactant systems of the present invention include a percarboxylic acid composition or a peroxy compound, and/or a mixture of diesters. For example, in some embodiments, the antimicrobial agent included is at least one of peracetic acid, peroctanoic acid, and mixtures and derivatives thereof. In other embodiments, the disinfecting and/or antimicrobial agent may be a two-solvent antimicrobial composition, such as the composition disclosed in U.S. patent No. 6,927,237, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

In other embodiments, the disinfecting and/or antimicrobial agent may comprise a combination of dicarboxylic acid monoesters or diesters. Suitable dicarboxylic acid mono-or diesters include the mono-or dimethyl, monoethyl or diethyl, monopropyl or dipropyl (n-or iso) or monobutyl or dibutyl (n-, second or third) or pentyl esters (n-, second, iso-or third) of malonic, succinic, glutaric, adipic or sebacic acid or mixtures thereof. Mixed esters (e.g., monomethyl/monoethyl or monopropyl/monoethyl) may also be employed. Preferred dicarboxylic acid mono-or diesters are commercially available and soluble in water or another carrier to a concentration effective to achieve antimicrobial activity. Preferred dicarboxylic acid mono-or diesters are toxic to microorganisms, but do not exhibit unacceptable toxicity to humans under the conditions of formulation or use. Exemplary compositions comprising dicarboxylic acid monoesters or diesters are disclosed in U.S. patent No. 7,060,301, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Some examples of common disinfecting and/or antimicrobial agents include phenolic antimicrobial agents, such as pentachlorophenol, orthophenylphenol, chloroterephenylmethyl phenol, p-chloroxylenol. Halogen-containing antibacterial agents include sodium trichloroisocyanurate, sodium dichloroisocyanate (anhydrous or dihydrate), iodine-poly (vinylpyrrolidone) complexes, bromine compounds (e.g., 2-bromo-2-nitropropane-1, 3-diol), and quaternary antimicrobial agents (e.g., benzalkonium chloride, didecyldimethylammonium chloride, choline diiodide chloride, tetramethylphosphonium tribromide). The following other antimicrobial compositions are known in the art for their antimicrobial properties: hexahydro-1, 3, 5-tris (2-hydroxyethyl) -s-triazine; dithiocarbamates, such as sodium dimethyldithiocarbamate; and various other materials. In some embodiments, the rinse aid composition is combined with a disinfectant (e.g., for low temperature applications) and is administered to or further comprises an amount of disinfectant effective to provide a desired level of disinfection.

Additional examples of common disinfecting and/or antimicrobial agents include chlorine-containing compounds, such as chlorine gas, hypochlorites, chloramines, and the like.

In some embodiments, an antimicrobial component may be included in a range of up to about 75% by weight of the composition, up to about 20% by weight, in a range of about 1.0% to about 20% by weight, in a range of about 5% to about 10% by weight, in a range of about 0.01 to about 1.0% by weight, or in a range of 0.05 to 0.05% by weight of the composition.

Bleaching agent

In some embodiments, the compositions of the present invention may include a bleaching agent. Bleaching agents may be used to lighten or whiten the substrate and may include compounds capable of releasing active halogen species (e.g., Cl) under conditions typically encountered during the cleaning process₂、Br₂、-OCl^-and/or-OBr^-Etc.) of a bleaching compound. Bleaching agents suitable for use may include, for example, chlorine-containing compounds such as chlorine, hypochlorites, chloramines, and the like. Some examples of halogen-releasing compounds include alkali metal dichloroisocyanurates, chlorinated trisodium phosphate, alkali metal hypochlorites, monochloramine, dichloramine, and the like. Encapsulated chlorine sources may also be used to enhance the stability of the chlorine source in the composition.

Bleaching agents may also include agents that contain or act as a source of active oxygen. The active oxygen compound is used to provide a source of active oxygen, such as may be released in an aqueous solution. The active oxygen compound may be inorganic or organic, or may be a mixture thereof. Some examples of active oxygen compounds include peroxy compounds or peroxy compound adducts. Some examples of active oxygen compounds or sources include hydrogen peroxide, perborates, sodium carbonate peroxyhydrate, phosphate peroxyhydrate, potassium permonosulfate, and sodium perborate mono and tetrahydrate, with and without activators such as tetraacetylethylenediamine, and the like. The humectant composition may include a minor but effective amount of bleach, for example, in some embodiments, in a range of up to about 10% by weight, and in some embodiments, in a range of about 0.1% to about 6% by weight.

Builders or fillers

In some embodiments, the compositions of the present invention may include a minor but effective amount of one or more fillers that do not necessarily act as rinsing and/or cleaning agents themselves, but may cooperate with the surfactant system to enhance the overall capacity of the composition. Some examples of suitable fillers may include sodium sulfate, sodium chloride, starch, sugar, C₁-C₁₀Alkylene glycols (e.g., propylene glycol), and the like. In some embodiments, the filler content may be in the range of up to about 20 wt-%, and in some embodiments, in the range of about 1 to 15 wt-%.

Anti-redeposition agent

In some embodiments, the compositions of the present invention may include an anti-redeposition agent capable of promoting the continued suspension of soils in the rinsing solution and preventing the redeposition of the removed soils onto the rinsed substrate. Some examples of suitable anti-redeposition agents may include fatty acid amides, fluorocarbon-type surfactants, complex phosphate esters, styrene maleic anhydride copolymers, and cellulose derivatives, such as hydroxyethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, and the like. The wetting agent composition may include up to about 10 wt-%, and in some embodiments, in the range of about 1 to about 5 wt-% of the anti-redeposition agent.

Dye/odorant

In some embodiments, the compositions of the present invention may include dyes, odorants, including perfumes, and other aesthetic enhancing agents. Dyes may be included to modify the appearance of the composition, such as, for example, FD & C Blue No. 1 (Sigma Chemical), FD & C yellow No. 5 (Sigma Chemical), direct Blue 86(Miles), Fastusol Blue (Mobay Chemical Corp.), acid orange 7(American Cyanamid), basic Violet 10(Sandoz), acid yellow 23(GAF), acid yellow 17(Sigma Chemical), grass Green (Sap Green) (Keyston Analine and Chemical), Metaminoyellow (Keystone Analine and Chemical), acid Blue 9(Hilton Davis), Shandlan Blue (Sandolan)/acid Blue 182(Sandoz), Hisol fast Red (Capitol Color and Chemical), fluorescein (Capitol Color and Chemical), acid Green 25(Ciba-Geigy), and the like. Fragrances or perfumes that may be included in the composition include, for example, terpenoids, such as citronellol; aldehydes such as amyl cinnamaldehyde; jasmine, such as C1S-jasmine or benzyl acetate, vanillin, etc. In other embodiments, the composition may include preservatives and/or dyes in an amount ranging up to about 2 wt-% or up to about 1 wt-%.

Moisture-retaining agent

The composition may also optionally include one or more humectants. Humectants are substances that have an affinity for water. The humectant can be provided in an amount sufficient to help reduce the visibility of the film on the surface of the substrate. The visibility of films on the substrate surface is a particular concern when the rinse water contains more than 200ppm total dissolved solids. Thus, in some embodiments, when the rinse water contains more than 200ppm total dissolved solids, the humectant is provided in an amount sufficient to reduce the visibility of the film on the substrate surface as compared to a rinse agent composition without the humectant. The term "aqueous solid film-forming" or "film-forming" means that there is apparently a continuous layer of material on the surface of the substrate, giving the appearance that the surface of the substrate is not clean.

Some exemplary humectants that can be used include those materials that contain greater than 5 wt.% water (on a dry humectant basis) when equilibrated at 50% relative humidity and room temperature. Exemplary humectants that can be used include glycerin, propylene glycol, sorbitol, alkyl polyglycosides, polybetaine polysiloxanes, and mixtures thereof. In some embodiments, the humectant composition may include a humectant in an amount ranging up to about 75% by weight of the total composition, and in some embodiments, ranging from about 5 wt.% to about 75 wt.% by weight of the composition. In some embodiments, the weight ratio of humectant to tableting aid in the presence of humectant may be in the range of about 1:3 or greater, and in some embodiments, in the range of about 5:1 and about 1: 3.

Examples

The surfactant system compositions of the present invention may include liquid products, viscous liquid products, gelled liquid products, pastes, granular and granulated solid compositions, powders, pressed solid compositions, solid block compositions, cast solid block compositions, extruded solid block compositions, and the like.

Use solution

The surfactant system composition may comprise a concentrate composition or may be diluted to form a use composition. In general, a concentrate refers to a composition of use solution intended to be diluted with water to provide contact with an object to achieve a desired cleaning, rinsing, etc. The composition that is contacted with the items to be washed may be referred to as a concentrate or use composition (or use solution), depending on the formulation used in the method according to the invention. In one aspect, the surfactant system in the use solution preferably has a pH of 8.5 or less, 8.3 or less, or 7 or less.

The use solution may be prepared from the concentrate by diluting the concentrate with water at a dilution ratio that provides the use solution with the desired cleaning characteristics. The water used to dilute the concentrate to form the use composition may be referred to as dilution water or diluent, and may vary from location to location. Typical dilution factors are between about 1 and about 10,000, but will depend on factors including water hardness, the amount of soil to be removed, and the like. In one embodiment, the concentrate is diluted at a concentrate to water ratio of between about 1:10 and about 1:10,000. Specifically, the concentrate is diluted at a concentrate to water ratio of between about 1:100 and about 1:5,000. More specifically, the concentrate is diluted at a concentrate to water ratio of between about 1:250 and about 1:2,000.

In one aspect of the invention, the surfactant system composition preferably provides an effective rinse at low use dilution, i.e., less volume is required for effective cleaning. In one aspect, the concentrated liquid detergent composition may be diluted in water prior to use at a dilution of about l/16 oz/gal to about 2 oz/gal. Advantageously, the surfactant system concentrate compositions according to the present invention are effective at low actives, such that the compositions provide at least substantially similar, and preferably improved, action as compared to conventional rinse surfactant systems. In one aspect of the invention, the use solution of the surfactant system composition has between about 1ppm to about 125ppm of the surfactant system, between about 1ppm to about 100ppm of the surfactant system, between about 1ppm to about 75ppm of the surfactant system, between about 1ppm to about 50ppm of the surfactant system and preferably between about 10ppm to about 50ppm of the surfactant system. Further, without being limited by the invention, all ranges recited include the number of ranges recited and include each integer within the recited ranges.

Solid composition and method for producing solid

A variety of solid compositions can be formulated using the surfactant systems of the present invention, including granular and granulated solid compositions, powders, solid block compositions, cast solid block compositions, extruded solid block compositions, and the like. The term "solid" means that the hardening composition does not flow and substantially retains its shape under moderate stress or pressure or simply gravity. The solid may be in a variety of forms such as a powder, a flake, a granule, a pellet, a briquette, a rhombohedral, an iceball, a briquette, a brick, a solid block, a unit dose, or another solid form known to those skilled in the art. The hardness of the solid casting composition and/or compacted solid composition may range from a relatively dense and hard molten solid product such as concrete to a consistency characterized as a hardened paste. Additionally, the term "solid" refers to the state of the detergent composition under the conditions of intended storage and use of the solid detergent composition. Generally, it is contemplated that the detergent composition will remain in solid form when exposed to temperatures up to about 100 ° f and especially up to about 120 ° f.

The resulting solid composition may take a form including, but not limited to, the following forms: cast solid product; extruding, molding or forming solid pellets, blocks, briquettes, powders, granules, flakes; pressing the solid; or the shaped solid may thereafter be milled or shaped into a powder, granules or flakes. In one exemplary embodiment, the mass of extruded pellets formed from the solidified matrix has a weight between about 50 grams and about 250 grams, the extruded solid formed from the composition has a weight of about 100 grams or greater, and the solid block cleaner formed from the composition has a mass between about 1 and about 10 kilograms. The solid composition provides a stable source of functional materials. In some embodiments, the solid composition may be dissolved, for example, in an aqueous solution or other medium, resulting in a concentrated solution and/or use solution. The solution may be directed into a storage container for subsequent use and/or dilution, or it may be applied directly to the point of use.

The solid particulate matter may be prepared simply by blending the dry solid ingredients in the appropriate ratios or by agglomerating the matter in an appropriate agglomeration system. Granulated materials can be made by compressing solid particles or agglomerated material in a suitable granulating apparatus to produce a granulated material of suitable size. Solid blocks and cast solid block masses can be prepared by introducing into a vessel either a pre-hardened mass of the mass or a castable liquid hardened into a solid block within the vessel. Preferably the container comprises a disposable plastic container or a water-soluble film container. Other suitable packaging for the composition includes flexible bags, sacks, shrink wrap, and water soluble films such as polyvinyl alcohol.

The solid detergent composition may be formed using a batch or continuous mixing system. In one exemplary embodiment, a single or twin screw extruder is used to combine and mix one or more components under high shear to form a homogeneous mixture. In some embodiments, the processing temperature is at or below the melting temperature of the components. The processed mixture can be dispensed from the mixer by forming, casting, or other suitable means, whereupon the detergent composition hardens into a solid form. The structure of the matrix can be characterized according to methods known in the art in terms of its hardness, melting point, material distribution, crystal structure, and other similar properties. In general, solid detergent compositions processed according to the method of the invention are substantially homogeneous in terms of distribution of ingredients throughout the mass, and are dimensionally stable.

In the extrusion process, the liquid and solid components are introduced into a final mixing system and mixing is continued until the components form a substantially homogeneous semi-solid mixture in which the components are distributed throughout the mass. The mixture is then discharged from the mixing system into or through a die or other forming member. The product is then packaged. In an exemplary embodiment, the shaped composition begins to harden to a solid form between about 1 minute and about 3 hours. Specifically, the shaped composition begins to harden to a solid form between about 1 minute and about 2 hours. More specifically, the shaped composition begins to harden to a solid form between about 1 minute and about 20 minutes.

In the casting process, the liquid and solid components are introduced into a final mixing system and mixing is continued until the components form a substantially homogeneous liquid mixture in which the components are distributed throughout the mass. In one exemplary embodiment, the components are mixed in the mixing system for at least about 60 seconds. Once mixing is complete, the product can be transferred to a packaging container where it is solidified. In an exemplary embodiment, the casting composition begins to harden to a solid form between about 1 minute and about 3 hours. Specifically, the cast composition begins to harden to a solid form between about 1 minute and about 2 hours. More specifically, the cast composition begins to harden to a solid form between about 1 minute and about 20 minutes.

In a pressed solids process, flowable solids, such as particulate solids or other particulate solids, including a surfactant system and a binder (e.g., hydrated chelants, such as hydrated aminocarboxylates, hydrated polycarboxylates or hydrated anionic polymers, hydrated citrates or hydrated tartrates, and the like, along with alkali metal carbonates, such as disclosed in U.S. patent nos. 8,894,897 and 8,894,898, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety) are combined under pressure. Surfactant systems are particularly well suited for use in compacting solid compositions because of the lower liquid levels that are a result of the synergistic effect obtained by formulating surfactant systems that require lower levels of active (i.e., less surfactant than other rinse aid surfactant compositions). By way of non-limiting example, the compacted solids of the surfactant system according to the present disclosure include substantially less liquid (e.g., less than 30%, 10-30%, less than 20%, 10-20%, 5-20%, less than 10%, 5-10%, or less than 5%) than between about 50-70% liquid would be required for a conventional bulk solid surfactant system.

In the process of pressing solids, the flowable solid of the composition is placed into a form (e.g., a mold or container). The method may include gently compressing the flowable solid in the form to produce a solid cleaning composition. Pressure may be applied by a block machine or rotary brick press or the like. Pressures of about 1 to about 2000psi, about 1 to about 300psi, about 5psi to about 200psi, or about 10 to about 100psi may be applied. In certain embodiments, the process may employ pressures as low as greater than or equal to about 1psi, greater than or equal to about 2psi, greater than or equal to about 5psi, or greater than or equal to about 10 psi. As used herein, the term "psi" or "pounds per square inch" refers to the actual pressure applied to the compacted flowable solid and does not refer to gauge or hydraulic pressure measured at a point in the apparatus where the compaction is performed. The method may include a curing step to produce a solid cleaning composition. As mentioned herein, the uncured composition comprising the flowable solid is compressed to provide sufficient surface contact between the particles making up the flowable solid so that the uncured composition will set into a stable solid cleaning composition. A sufficient amount of the particles (e.g., granules) in contact with each other provides for binding of the particles to each other, effective to produce a stable solid composition. Including the curing step may include allowing the compacted solid to set for a period of time, such as a few hours or about 1 day (or longer). In additional aspects, the method may include vibrating the flowable solid in the form or in a mold, such as the method disclosed in U.S. patent No. 8,889,048, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

The use of compressed solids provides a number of benefits over conventional solid block or slug compositions that require high pressures in a tablet press, or require melting of the composition, casting that consumes significant amounts of energy, and/or extrusion that requires expensive equipment and advanced technical knowledge. The compacted solid overcomes many of these limitations of other solid formulations required to make solid cleaning compositions. In addition, the compacted solid composition retains its shape under conditions in which the composition can be stored or handled.

The following patents disclose various combinations of setting, binding and/or hardening agents that may be used in the solid cleaning compositions of the present invention. The following U.S. patents are incorporated herein by reference, U.S. patent No. 7,153,820; 7,094,746 No; 7,087,569 No; 7,037,886 No; 6,831,054 No; 6,730,653 No; 6,660,707 No; 6,653,266 No; 6,583,094 No; 6,410,495 No; U.S. Pat. No. 6,258,765; U.S. Pat. No. 6,177,392; U.S. Pat. No. 6,156,715; 5,858,299 No; 5,316,688 No; 5,234,615 No; 5,198,198 No; 5,078,301 No; nos. 4,595,520; nos. 4,680,134; RE32,763; and No. RE 32818.

Application method

The surfactant systems and compositions employing the surfactant systems can be used in a variety of home/consumer applications as well as industrial applications. The compositions can be applied to a variety of areas including kitchens, bathrooms, factories, hospitals, dental offices, pharmaceutical or secondary packaging facilities, and food factories or secondary packaging facilities, and can be applied to a variety of hard or soft surfaces having smooth, irregular or porous surface morphologies. Suitable hard surfaces include, for example, architectural surfaces (e.g., floors, walls, windows, sinks, tables, counters, and signs); tableware; hard surface medical or surgical instruments and devices; and hard surface packaging. Such hard surfaces may be made of a variety of materials including, for example, ceramic, metal, glass, wood, or hard plastic. Suitable soft surfaces include, for example, paper, filter media, hospital and surgical linens and garments, soft surface medical or surgical instruments and devices, and soft surface packaging. Such soft surfaces can be made from a variety of materials including, for example, paper, fiber, woven or non-woven fibers, soft plastics, and elastomers.

The surfactant systems and compositions employing the surfactant systems of the present invention can be used in a variety of applications. For example, in some embodiments, the surfactant systems and compositions may be formulated for use in warewashing applications, including rinse cycles in commercial warewashing machines. The first type of rinse cycle may be referred to as a hot water sanitizing rinse cycle because hot rinse water (about 180 ° f) is typically used. The second type of rinse cycle may be referred to as a chemical sanitizing rinse cycle and it typically uses rinse water at a lower temperature (about 120 ° f). Advantageously, the surfactant system and compositions employing the surfactant system are particularly well suited for use in both low and high temperature conditions.

The methods employing surfactant systems and compositions employing surfactant systems are particularly useful in closed systems, such as dish or ware washing systems, to achieve enhanced sheeting, wetting and drying of articles and surfaces. According to embodiments of the present invention, the surfactant system and compositions employing the surfactant system are suitable for both low temperature and high temperature applications.

In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, the surfactant systems and compositions employing the surfactant systems as disclosed herein are used in low temperature warewashing applications. As referred to herein, cryogenic warewashing includes temperatures at or below about 140 ° f. In one embodiment, the temperature of the rinse water is up to about 140 ° f, preferably in the range of 100 ° f to 140 ° f, preferably in the range of 110 ° f to 140 ° f, and most preferably in the range of 120 ° f to 140 ° f. As referred to herein, "low temperature" refers to those rinse water temperatures below about 140 ° f. In one aspect, the method of the invention employing cryogenic temperatures further employs a disinfectant.

In a particularly preferred aspect, the low temperature composition may employ surfactant A (R)¹-O-(EO)_x3(PO)_y3-H) (or surfactant A2 (R)¹-O-(EO)x₄(PO)y₄-H)), surfactant B (R)²-O-(EO)_x1-H) and a surfactant D (R)⁷-O-(PO)y₅(EO)x₅(PO)y₆) Combinations of (a) and (b). In another embodiment, surfactant is excluded from a low temperature rinse aid surfactant systemSex agent E (R)⁶-O-(PO)y₄(EO)x₄). In another embodiment, for solid compositions, surfactant G ((EO) x6(PO) y7(EO) x6) (an EO-PO-EO block copolymer) is included.

In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, the surfactant systems and compositions employing the surfactant systems as disclosed herein are used in high temperature warewashing applications. As referred to herein, a high temperature (or sanitizing) rinse includes temperatures above about 140 ° f. In one aspect, elevated temperature refers to a rinsing temperature for warewashing in excess of 140 ℃, or about 140 ° f to about 190 ° f or about 145 ° f to about 180 ° f.

In a particularly preferred aspect, the high temperature composition can employ surfactant A (R)¹-O-(EO)_x3(PO)_y3-H) (or surfactant A2 (R)¹-O-(EO)x₄(PO)y₄-H)), surfactant B (R)²-O-(EO)_x1-H) and surfactant C (R)²-O-(EO)_x2-H). In another embodiment, surfactant E (R) is excluded from the high temperature rinse aid surfactant system⁶-O-(PO)y₄(EO)x₄). In another embodiment, for solid compositions, surfactant G ((EO) x6(PO) y7(EO) x6) (an EO-PO-EO block copolymer) is included.

The surfactant system and compositions employing the surfactant system can contact a surface or an article by a number of methods for applying the composition, such as spraying the composition, submerging the object in the composition, or a combination thereof. The concentrate or use concentration of the composition of the present invention may be applied to or contacted with an article by any conventional method or apparatus for applying a cleaning composition to an object. For example, the object may be wiped, sprayed, and/or submerged with the composition or a use solution made from the composition. The composition may be sprayed or wiped onto a surface; the composition may be allowed to flow onto the surface, or the surface may be impregnated into the composition. The contact may be manual or by machine.

In other embodiments, the surfactant system and compositions employing the surfactant system may be used in an aqueous environment containing a large amount of solids in order to reduce the appearance of visible films resulting from the level of dissolved solids provided in the water. Generally, water containing a significant amount of solids is considered to be water having a Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) content in excess of 200 ppm. In some regions, domestic water contains more than 400ppm, and even more than 800ppm total dissolved solids. Applications where the presence of a visible film after washing a substrate is a particular problem include the restaurant or warewashing industry, the automobile washing industry, and general cleaning of hard surfaces.

Exemplary articles in the warewashing industry that can be treated with the surfactant systems and compositions employing the surfactant systems include plastics, tableware, cups, glass, flatware, and cookware. For the purposes of the present invention, the terms "serving tray" and "vessel" are used in the broadest sense to refer to different types of items used in food preparation, service, consumption and disposal, including pots, jars, plates, kettles, bowls, dishes, saucer, cups, glasses, forks, knives, spoons, spatulas, and other glass, metal, ceramic, plastic composite items commonly used in institutional or domestic kitchens or restaurants. Generally, these types of articles may be referred to as food or beverage contact articles because their surfaces are used to contact food and/or beverages. When used in these warewashing applications, the surfactant system provides effective sheeting action, low foaming characteristics, and rapid drying. In some aspects, the surfactant system and compositions employing the surfactant system dry the surface (e.g., ware) within about 30 seconds to several minutes, or within about 30 to about 90 seconds, after application of the aqueous solution.

In addition to having the desirable characteristics described above, it is equally applicable that the surfactant system and compositions employing the surfactant system are biodegradable, environmentally friendly, and generally non-toxic. Humectants of this type may be described as "food grade".

The surfactant system and compositions employing the surfactant system may also be applied to surfaces and objects other than vessels, including but not limited to medical and dental instruments, as well as hard surfaces such as automotive surfaces or any other facility surfaces, textiles and clothing, for use in mining and/or other industrial energy services. The compositions may also be used as rinse aids in a variety of applications for a variety of surfaces, including, for example, in compositions for disinfecting, sterilizing, acting as a sporicide or bactericide for bottles, pumps, lines, tanks, and mixing equipment used in making such beverages. Still further, the surfactant system and compositions employing the surfactant system are particularly useful as rinse aids, including glass cleaners. These are other applications included within the scope of the invention.

All publications and patent applications in this specification are indicative of the level of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. All publications and patent applications are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference.

Examples of the invention

Embodiments of the present invention are further defined in the following non-limiting examples. It should be understood that these examples, while indicating certain embodiments of the invention, are given by way of illustration only. From the above discussion and these examples, one skilled in the art can ascertain the essential characteristics of this invention, and without departing from the spirit and scope thereof, can make various changes and modifications of the embodiments of the invention to adapt the invention to various usages and conditions. Accordingly, various modifications of the embodiments of the present invention in addition to those shown and described herein will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the foregoing description. It is intended that such modifications be within the scope of the appended claims.

Example 1

Latent raw materials for rinse aids were initially tested in a grignard foam machine. The raw materials were initially tested by themselves in a grignard foam machine, and then tested at different combination ratios with other raw materials based on the activity of the particular raw material. Raw materials were added to the circulating water and the foam produced was measured after one to five minutes. The product that produced excessive amounts of stable foam in this evaluation was identified as undesirable because it caused mechanical pump cavitation.

Table 4 shows the initial testing of the individual surfactants for foaming. The foam profile indicates how much foam each individual surfactant produces at different temperatures, so that a better understanding of how it will foam in the dishwasher is obtained. The foam study was completed using a grignard foam device in which the foam level was read after one minute of agitation and again after 5 minutes of agitation. The gelliflol foam apparatus was set at 6psi at varying temperature (deg.C) for 5 minutes. The machine was then turned off and the foam was measured for 1 minute. The test was run in soft water (3L) using 20g of milk powder and 50ppm of active surfactant (at 100% active level). The initial 1 minute test showed foaming under surfactant only; soil challenges after 5 minutes include the presence of 2000ppm soil and measuring surfactant sudsing in the presence of soil (indicating a foam measurement where a desirable foam profile is less than 5 inches).

TABLE 4

Note the foam level in the machine. Referring to the results shown in table 4, the amount of foam in inches indicates how much foam remains, with minimum amounts after 1 minute and 15 minutes being preferred. The partially stable foam slowly decomposed within one minute. Unstable foams burst rapidly in less than 15 seconds. The best results are foam instability or no foam, and generally, stable foam at any level is unacceptable. Foams that are less than one-half inch and are unstable and disappear shortly after the machine is shut down are acceptable, but no foam is optimal. Various surfactants demonstrate beneficial low or no foam profiles under the conditions tested. The surfactant then proceeds to the sheeting evaluation.

Example 2

The individual surfactants evaluated for foaming in example 1 were also evaluated for sheeting in a dishwasher to demonstrate the ability to individually sheet different types of dishware. The tests observed water sheeting on twelve different types of warewash materials including a 10 oz glass beaker, porcelain dish, melamine dish, polypropylene coffee cup, dinex bowl, polypropylene pot, polysulfonate dish, stainless steel butter knife, polypropylene coffee dish, fiberglass coffee dish, and stainless steel slide 316.

For evaluation, the test material was initially washed and then contaminated with a solution containing 0.2% of a hot spot soil (a mixture of milk powder and margarine). The material was then exposed to a 30 second wash cycle using either 71 ℃ (160 ° f) soft water (0 particles) for high temperature evaluation or 48 ℃ (120 ° f) and 60 ℃ (140 ° f) tap water for low temperature evaluation. The test product was measured in parts per million of active agent. Immediately after exposure of the warewash material to the test product, the appearance of water (sheeting) draining from the test material alone was examined.

The results of evaluating the individual surfactants are shown in tables 5-8. Immediately after exposure of the warewashing materials to the rinse aid formulation, the appearance (sheeting) of water drained from the individual warewashing materials was examined and evaluated. The following table shows the results of these tests. In these tables, the sheeting evaluation is indicated by: zero (0) indicates no sheeting, the number "one" (1) indicates pinhole sheeting, or the number "two" (2) indicates complete sheeting. Pinhole sheeting refers to the presence of tiny pinholes on the water surface as the water is being drained from the items being washed. The size of these holes increases slightly as water continues to drain from the vessel. Complete sheeting refers to the continuous sheeting of water on the washed items as the water is drained from the ware. The test was complete when all washed items showed complete flaking.

Table 5 (surfactant D, 0 granules; 69.4 deg.C (157F.))

Table 6 surfactant a; 0 particle; 69.4 ℃ (157 ° F)) shows that at 110ppm all substrates achieved complete sheeting.

Active ppm in rinse aid	40	50	60	70	80	90	100	110
									Big glass cup	0	0	0	1	1	2	2	2
Ceramic dish	1	1	1	1	2	2	2	2
									Melamine plate	1	1	1	1	2	2	2	2
Polypropylene cup (yellow)	0	0	0	0	0	1	1	2
									Dinex bowl (blue)	0	0	0	0	0	1	1	2
Polypropylene pot (blue)	0	0	1	1	1	2	2	2
									Polysulfonate dinner plate (transparent brown)	0	0	1	1	1	2	2	2
Stainless steel knife	0	1	1	1	1	2	2	2
									Polypropylene dish (peach color)	1	1	1	1	1	2	2	2
Glass fiber dish (Brown)	0	0	1	1	1	2	2	2
									Stainless steel slip sheet 316	1	1	1	1	1	2	2	2
Foam	Is free of	Is free of	Is free of	Is free of	Is free of	Is free of	Is free of	Is free of

Table 7 (surfactant I; 0 granules; 69.4 deg.C (157 ℃ F.); T ═ traces)

Active ppm in rinse aid	40	50	60	70	80	90	100	110	120	130
											Big glass cup	0	0	0	1	1	1	1	2	2	2
Ceramic dish	0	1	1	1	1	2	2	2	2	2
											Melamine plate	0	1	1	1	1	1	2	2	2	2
Polypropylene cup (yellow)	0	0	0	0	0	0	1	1	1	2
											Dinex bowl (blue)	0	0	0	1	1	2	2	2	2	2
Polypropylene pot (blue)	0	0	0	1	1	1	1	1	1	2
											Polysulfonate dinner plate (transparent brown)	0	0	0	1	1	1	1	2	2	2
Stainless steel knife	0	1	1	1	1	1	1	1	1	2
											Polypropylene dish (peach color)	0	1	1	1	1	2	2	2	2	2
Glass fiber dish (Brown)	0	0	0	1	1	1	1	1	1	1
											Stainless steel slip sheet 316	0	1	1	1	1	1	1	1	2	2
Foam	T	T	T	T	T	T	T	T	T	T

TABLE 8 (surfactant J; 0 particles; 69.4 deg.C (157F.))

Various surfactants demonstrated beneficial sheeting results under the conditions tested. From table 6, the surfactant type a demonstrated complete sheeting at a relatively lower concentration than the D, I and the surfactant type J. The surfactant then proceeds to dynamic contact angle evaluation with additional surfactant.

Example 3

The test quantitatively measures the angle at which a drop of solution contacts the test substrate. To produce the desired concentration of rinse aid or surfactant, which is then placed into the apparatus. From

The square plate cuts rectangular shapes of each plastic substrate material (melamine, polycarbonate, polypropylene). All experiments were performed on a KRUSS DSA 100 drop analyzer. The solution and sample are then heated in the chamber to the desired temperature. For each experiment, a rectangular substrate was placed on a temperature heated Peltier plate (Peltier plate)te) on the KRUSS DSA 100 platform under control. The temperature was set to 80 ℃.

The substrate was left on the platform for 10 minutes to bring it to the desired temperature. Droplets of 5ul surfactant solution at a surfactant concentration of 60ppm were deposited onto the substrate material (polypropylene, polycarbonate and melamine samples) and the contact angle between the droplet and the surface was measured over a period of 12 seconds. Three measurements were made and averaged for each substrate/surfactant solution combination.

The release of the droplets to the substrate is recorded by a camera. Video taken by the camera is sent to a computer and the contact angle can be determined. The lower the contact angle, the better the solution will induce sheeting. This means that once the dishware is removed from the dishwasher, the faster the dishware will dry and the less specks.

Results of contact angle measurements are shown in fig. 2-3, with various surfactants evaluated individually. Figures 2-3 demonstrate that surfactant a alone has overall the best performance in terms of sheeting and wetting, with surfactant J, surfactant a2 and surfactant B also providing excellent results. Surfactant D was selected based on the demonstrated antifoaming as having acceptable results. Based on the evaluation of the dynamic contact angle measurements, the highest performing surfactants were evaluated at different ratios for the foam (with and without defoamer) as set forth in example 4.

Example 4

The grignard foam evaluation set forth in example 1 was performed for the highest performing surfactant of example 3 and compared to different ratios of surfactants to evaluate the potential synergy of the combination of foaming benefits. Table 9 shows combinations of surfactants screened for synergy.

A single surfactant or combination that foams more than 8 "after an initial reading of five minutes is considered to be too foamy for the application. A single surfactant or combination having a foam less than 8 "but a foam greater than 5" after the five minute initial reading is considered a candidate surfactant for use, but requires additional defoaming from another source of defoaming surfactant such as a type D surfactant. If the foam produced continues to break to less than 1 "after the final foam reading, then a single surfactant or combination having a foam less than 5" after the five minute initial reading is considered a more desirable candidate surfactant for the application. For a favorable foam profile, the combination of surfactants a and B would require, for example, the addition of a surfactant of type D.

Table 10 shows the combinations of surfactants initially screened for synergy. If the foam produced continues to break to less than 1 "after the final foam reading, then a single surfactant or combination having a foam less than 5" after the five minute initial reading is considered a more desirable candidate surfactant for the application. Surfactant type D the combination of surfactants a and I for example shows a foam profile which is advantageous for the application.

Watch 10

Table 11 shows other combinations of surfactants screened for synergy, where it is demonstrated that using surfactant C instead of surfactant B achieves beneficial results, achieving relatively lower foam combinations. While surfactant C alone did not exhibit acceptable foam characteristics, the blend of surfactants A, I and C exhibited a favorable foam profile, in contrast to the surfactant combination of surfactants A, I and B. A single surfactant or combination that foams more than 8 "after an initial reading of five minutes is considered to be too foamy for the application. A single surfactant or combination having a foam less than 8 "but a foam greater than 5" after the five minute initial reading is considered a candidate surfactant for the application, but requires additional defoaming from another source of defoaming surfactant such as type D surfactant, or alternatively, uses less type B surfactant in combination with additional type C surfactant. If the foam produced continues to break to less than 1 "after the final foam reading, then a single surfactant or combination having a foam less than 5" after the five minute initial reading is considered a more desirable candidate surfactant for the application. A. The combination of I and C meets the favorable foam profile, while the combination of A, I and B would require additional defoaming.

TABLE 11

Example 5

The sheeting evaluations set forth in example 2 were conducted using the highest performing surfactant combination of example 4, comparing different ratios of surfactants, to evaluate the potential synergy of the combination of sheeting benefits with and without defoamer.

TABLE 12 (40% A/40% B/20% C; 0 granules; 65.5 deg.C (150F.))

The results depicted in table 12 show the superior results of the surfactant system providing efficacy at low concentrations (50ppm or less).

Table 13 (36.5% A/22.1% C/41.4% I; 0 granules; 64.4 deg.C (148F.))

The results depicted in table 13 demonstrate improved results compared to commercial rinse additives, where the surfactant system provides efficacy at a concentration of 100ppm or less, as less foam was observed than the combination of A, B, C during the test. However, the combination of A, C, I did not provide full tabletization efficacy compared to the combination of A, B, C.

TABLE 14 (40% A/20% C/40% A2; 0 granules; 66 deg.C (150F.))

The results depicted in table 14 demonstrate the improved results compared to commercial rinse additives, where the surfactant system provides efficacy at a concentration of 100ppm or less. The use of a with a2 and C did not provide the full sheeting efficacy shown in the examples of surfactant combinations of A, B and C.

TABLE 15 (40% A/20% B/40% A2; 0 granules; 66 deg.C (150F.))

The results depicted in table 15 demonstrate improved results compared to commercial rinse additives, where the surfactant system provides efficacy at a concentration of 70ppm or less. The use of a with a2 and B did not provide the full sheeting efficacy shown in the examples of surfactant combinations of A, B and C.

TABLE 16 (56% A/5% B/14% I/25% D; 0 granules; 63.3 deg.C (146F.))

The results depicted in table 16 demonstrate the improved results compared to commercial rinse additives, where the surfactant system provides efficacy at concentrations of 100ppm or less. However, the addition of surfactants of type I and D, respectively, which exhibit a favorable foam profile, reduces the efficacy of complete sheeting.

TABLE 17 (40% J/40% A2/20% H; 0 granules; 64.4 deg.C (148F.))

The results depicted in table 17 demonstrate the improved results compared to commercial rinse additives, where the surfactant system provides efficacy at a concentration of 100ppm or less. However, the addition of surfactants of type J and H, respectively, which exhibit a favorable foam profile, reduces the efficacy of complete sheeting.

TABLE 18 (40% A/40% A2/20% H; 0 granules; 66 deg.C (150F.))

The results depicted in table 18 demonstrate the improved results compared to commercial rinse additives, where the surfactant system provides efficacy at a concentration of 100ppm or less. However, the addition of type G surfactants, each exhibiting a favorable foam profile, reduced the full sheeting efficacy compared to the blend of A, B, C.

TABLE 19 (50% B/50% D; 0 granules; 66 deg.C (150F.))

The results depicted in table 19 demonstrate improved results compared to commercial rinse additives, where the surfactant system provides efficacy at a concentration of 70ppm or less. However, while the addition of the surfactant combination of B and D provides unexpected efficacy, the combination of B and D is not as effective as the combination of A, B, C.

The results shown in tables 12-19 illustrate significant improvements and synergistic results for surfactant system a/B/C (40/40/20 ratio), surfactant system a/B/a2(40/20/40 ratio), and surfactant system B/D (50/50 ratio). Surprisingly, synergistic combinations have a potential antagonistic effect with increasing amounts of antifoam in the surfactant system. Without being limited to a particular mechanism of action, the antagonistic effect indicated by slightly poorer efficacy with antifoams may be a result of interference with wetting and sheeting in the surfactant system according to the invention. Thus, the surfactant system and compositions employing the surfactant preferably do not require and/or employ a lesser concentration of defoamer, including, for example, less than about 20 wt-% defoamer (e.g., surfactant D). In other embodiments, the detergent composition employing the defoamer can follow the use of the surfactant system in an application and the composition employing the surfactant system.

The cumulative results shown in tables 12-19 are also depicted in graphical format in fig. 4, showing all pieces of data together. The graphs are generated by assigning the results of tables 12-19 with a numerical value (providing a total score or "sum" of results). The steeper the line for each system, the faster and completely flaky. The surfactant system a/B/C (40/40/20 ratio) is depicted as the highest performing system.

Example 6

These variants of the surfactant system tested in example 5 were further evaluated using dynamic contact angles as set forth in example 3. Fig. 5-7 show contact angle versus time (dynamic contact) as performed under the sheeting study. The figure confirms that the most preferred embodiment of the surfactant system is the surfactant system a/B/C (40/40/20 ratio).

Example 7

50 cycle redeposition evaluation the results of examples 5-6 using the preferred surfactant system were placed into two inline formulations at the same surfactant level as the inline surfactant package. The performance of the in-line product was evaluated in a 50 cycle test against the experimental formulation.

6 glasses are placed diagonally in the carrier together with a plastic glass. The machine was fed with 0.08% (800ppm) detergent and the required volume (ml) of each individual rinse aid. The detergent was kept constant for each rinse aid evaluated. A food soil concentration of 0.2% (2000ppm) was added to the machine (occupying the pool volume). When the test is started, the detergent and rinse aid dispensers are automatically dosed in the appropriate amount for each cycle. The detergent is controlled by conductivity and the rinse aid of each tray is dispensed in milliliters. Food soil was manually dosed to maintain a concentration of 0.2% (2000ppm) for each cycle. When the test was finished, the glass was allowed to dry overnight and the film accumulation was evaluated. The glass was then stained with coomassie blue to determine protein residues.

The results are shown in FIGS. 8-9. Figure 8 shows the average glass fraction and the plastic glass fraction, as well as the resulting variation depending on the placement of the glass in the carrier. The performance data shows that using a commercially available rinse aid with a surfactant system A/B/C at a ratio of 40/40/20, the average glass fraction and plastic fraction were greatly improved using the same surfactant percentages in-line and experimental formulations. Surprisingly, the formulation was more effective at a 2ml dose than the other formulations at a 4ml dose, indicating that the synergy obtained from the combination allows administration at lower active levels while providing at least substantially similar performance, or as depicted in fig. 8, with improved performance.

Figure 9 shows the redeposited protein fraction achieved using the preferred surfactant system a/B/C at the 40/40/20 ratio used in the commercial rinse aid a/B/C formulation, confirming the improved results of protein redeposition compared to the in-line commercial rinse aid. While the surfactant system provided for rinse aid benefits is not solely responsible for protein removal, sheeting of the rinse aid prevents soil loads in the sump of the dishwasher from redepositing on the ware, demonstrating further benefits of the present invention.

Example 8

Variants of surfactants were evaluated specifically for high temperature warewashing (80 ℃) in accordance with embodiments of the present invention. Foam, sheeting and dynamic contact angle were measured using the methods described in examples 1, 2 and 3, respectively. The combinations of surfactants are described in table 20.

Watch 20

	First composition	Second composition	Third composition
				Surfactant A
	40	0	38
				Surfactant A2	0	40	0
Surfactant B	40	40	38
				Surfactant C	20	20	0
Surfactant D			24

The results depicted in table 21 show the foam results obtained by the method described in example 1.

TABLE 21

Surfactant combinations

(℉)

Initial

15 seconds

1 minute

Initial

15 seconds

1 minute

A/B/C(40/40/20)

140

1 1/2

3/4

1/2

5

2 1/4

1 1/4

A2/B/C(40/40/20)

140

1 1/2

1/2

5

2

1 3/8

A/B/D(38/38/24)

140

1

1/4

1/8

5 1/2

3 1/2

1/2

FIG. 10 is an overview of the fractional fragmentation as a result of the method described in example 2.

The results in table 22 show a summary of the contact angles as a result of the method described in example 3. Exemplary contact angles of about 9 seconds after initial contact with the surface using 60ppm of active surfactant at 80 ℃ are depicted.

TABLE 22

Surfactant combinations	Average time (seconds)	Melamine	Polycarbonate resin	Polypropylene
					A/B/C(40/40/20)	9.10	17.00	36.30	44.10
A2/B/C(40/40/20)	9.06	15.20	34.87	40.45
					A/B/D(38/38/24)	9.04	27.38	41.52	47.75

Example 9

Variants of surfactants were evaluated specifically for low temperature warewashing (50 ℃) in accordance with embodiments of the present invention. Foam, sheeting and dynamic contact angle were measured using the methods described in examples 1, 2 and 3, respectively. Combinations of surfactants are described in table 23.

TABLE 23	First composition	Second composition	Third composition	Fourth composition
					Surface activeAgent A	38	0	15	32
Surfactant A2	0	38	0
					Surfactant B	38	38	15	32
Surfactant C	0	0	0	16
					Surfactant D	24	24	70	20

The results depicted in table 24 show the low temperature foam results produced by the method described in example 1.

Watch 24

Figure 11 is an overview of the sheeting scores as a result of the method described in example 2.

The results in table 25 show a summary of the contact angles as a result of the method described in example 3. Exemplary contact angles of about 9 seconds after initial contact with the surface at 50 ℃ using 60ppm of the active surfactant are depicted.

TABLE 25

Surfactant combinations	Mean time	Melamine	Polycarbonate resin	Polypropylene
					A/B/D(38/38/24)	9.05	36.75	45.73	53.45
A2/B/D(38/38/24)	9.04	34.20	44.08	57.57
					A/B/D(15/15/70)	9.04	37.70	49.23	68.23
A/B/C/D(32/32/16/20)	9.04	24.94	38.26	48.60

Example 10

Further evaluation of the surfactant combinations of the solid formulations according to embodiments of the present invention was performed using the methods described in examples 1, 2 and 3, wherein foam, sheeting and dynamic contact angle were determined separately. Combinations of surfactants are described in table 26.

Watch 26

Surfactant combinations	First composition	Second composition	Third composition
				Surfactant A
	25	30	30
				Surfactant B	25	30	0
Surfactant D	0	0	30
				Surfactant G	50	40	40

The results depicted in table 27 show the low temperature foam results produced by the method described in example 1.

Watch 27

Table 28 is a summary of the fractional fragmentation as a result of the method described in example 2.

TABLE 28 (25% A/25% B/50% G; 0 granules; 66 deg.C (150F.))

The results in table 29 show a summary of the contact angles as a result of the method described in example 3. Exemplary contact angles of about 9 seconds after initial contact with the surface at 50 ℃ using 60ppm of the active surfactant are depicted.

Watch 29

Surfactant combinations	Mean time	Melamine	Polycarbonate resin	Polypropylene
					A/D/G(30/30/40)	9.04	35.3	45.4	54.9

Example 11

Further evaluation of the surfactant system compared to a commercial rinse aid control compared to glassware, flatware and dish ratings in commercial warewashing applications. The goal of the test is to evaluate the surfactant system as compared to the positive control, as determined by ware rating and drying time, in order to obtain the same (at lower actives) or better performance. Additional benefits of reduced cost surfactant systems were also measured.

Rinse aid testing was performed in 10 different locations evenly separated between high temperature (>180 ° f rinse, hot water sanitization) and low temperature (<180 ° f rinse, chemical sanitization) dishwashers. Positive controls were each a commercially available rinse aid. The following information was collected during the 45-day baseline and 45-day test phases: glassware appearance ratings (overall, mottle, film) according to table 30 (grades 1 to 5).

Watch 30

The rinse aid delivery volume is consistent at all locations. FIG. 12 shows a scatter plot of the baseline (positive control) and the test (surfactant system A/B/D38/38/24). Beneficially, according to the test results, as shown in fig. 12, the surfactant system according to the present invention provides at least the same efficacy as the positive control (at about 50% lower active agent).

Having thus described the invention, it will be obvious that the same may be varied in many ways. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the spirit and scope of the invention, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the following claims. The above specification provides a description of the manufacture and use of the disclosed compositions and methods. Since many embodiments of the invention can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, the invention resides in the claims hereinafter appended.

Claims

1. A surfactant system comprising:

(i)5 to 80 parts by weight of a nonionic alcohol alkoxylate of the formula

R¹-O-(EO)_x3(PO)_y3-H (A)

Wherein R is¹Is straight chain C₁₀-C₁₆Alkyl radical, wherein x₃Is 5 to 8, and wherein y₃Is a mixture of a water-soluble polymer and a water-soluble polymer, and is 2 to 5,

(ii)5 to 80 parts by weight of a nonionic alcohol alkoxylate of the formula

R²-O-(EO)_x1-H (B)

Wherein R is²Is C having an average of at least 2 branches per residue₁₀-C₁₄Alkyl, and wherein x₁Is from 5 to 10, and

(iii) one or more nonionic alcohol alkoxylates according to the following formula (A2) or (C)

R¹-O-(EO)_x4(PO)_y4-H (A2)

Wherein R is¹Is straight chain C₁₀-C₁₆Alkyl radical, wherein x₄Is 4 to 6, and wherein y₄Is 3 to 5 and the alcohol alkoxylate of formula (A2) if present is present in an amount of 5 to 80 parts by weight;

R²-O-(EO)_x2-H (C)

wherein R is²Is C having an average of at least 2 branches per residue₁₀-C₁₄Alkyl radical, wherein x₂Is 2 to 4 and the alcohol alkoxylate of formula (C), if present, is present in an amount of up to 80 parts by weight.

2. The surfactant system of claim 1, further comprising at least one additional surfactant, wherein the at least one additional surfactant is

R⁷-O-(PO)y₅(EO)x₅(PO)y₆ (D)

Wherein R is⁷Is branched C₈-C₁₆Guerbet alcohol, x₅Is 5 to 30, y₅Is 1 to 4, and y₆Is a mixture of the acid-treated water with a molecular weight of 10 to 20,

R⁶-O-(PO)y₄(EO)x₄ (E)

wherein R is⁶Is C₈-C₁₆Guerbet alcohol, wherein x₄Is 2 to 10, and wherein y₄Is a number of from 1 to 2,

wherein x is 12-20, y is 120 to 220, and z is 12 to 20,

wherein x is 88 to 108, y is 57 to 77, and z is 88 to 108,

wherein x is 15 to 25, y is 10 to 25, and z is 15 to 25,

R⁴-O-(EO)_x(XO)_y-H (I)

wherein R is⁴Is C₁₃-C₁₅Alkyl, x is 8 to 10, y is 1 to 3, and XO is butylene oxide,

R⁵-O-(EO)_x(PO)_y-H (J)

wherein R is⁵Is C₁₂-C₁₅Alkyl, x is 3 to 5, and y is 5 to 7,

or a combination thereof.

3. The surfactant system according to claim 1, wherein the nonionic alcohol alkoxylate of the surfactant system comprises 40 parts by weight alcohol alkoxylate according to formula (a), 40 parts by weight alcohol alkoxylate according to formula (a2), and 20 parts by weight alcohol alkoxylate according to formula (B) in a weight ratio.

4. The surfactant system according to claim 1, wherein the surfactant system comprises 30-45 parts by weight of the alcohol alkoxylate according to formula (a), 20-50 parts by weight of the alcohol alkoxylate according to formula (B), and 15-40 parts by weight of the alcohol alkoxylate according to formula (C), in weight ratios.

5. The surfactant system according to claim 4, wherein the nonionic alcohol alkoxylate of the surfactant system comprises 40 parts by weight alcohol alkoxylate according to formula (A), 40 parts by weight alcohol alkoxylate according to formula (B), and 20 parts by weight alcohol alkoxylate according to formula (C) in a weight ratio.

6. A surfactant system comprising:

(i) one or more nonionic alcohol alkoxylates according to the formula

R¹-O-(EO)_x3(PO)_y3-H (A)

Wherein R is¹Is straight chain C₁₀-C₁₆Alkyl radical, wherein x₃Is 5 to 8, and wherein y₃Is 2 to 5 and the alcohol alkoxylate of formula (A), if present, is present in an amount of 5 to 80 parts by weight; and

R¹-O-(EO)_x4(PO)_y4-H (A2)

wherein R is¹Is straight chain C₁₀-C₁₆Alkyl radical, wherein x₄Is 4 to 6, and wherein y₄Is 3 to 5 and the alcohol alkoxylate of formula (A2) if present is present in an amount of 5 to 80 parts by weight; and

(ii)5 to 80 parts by weight of a surfactant selected from nonionic alcohol alkoxylates according to the following formula (B) or surfactant polymers according to the following formula (G)

R²-O-(EO)_x1-H (B)

Wherein R is²Is C having an average of at least 2 branches per residue₁₀-C₁₄Alkyl, and wherein x₁Is 5 to 10, or

Wherein x is 88 to 108, y is 57 to 77, and z is 88 to 108;

and

(iii)5-80 parts by weight of a non-ionic guerbet alcohol alkoxylate according to the following formula:

R⁷-O-(PO)y₅(EO)x₅(PO)y₆ (D)

wherein R is⁷Is branched C₈-C₁₆Guerbet alcohol, x₅Is 5 to 30, y₅Is 1 to 4, and y₆Is 10 to 20.

7. The surfactant system of claim 6, further comprising at least one additional surfactant, wherein the at least one additional surfactant is

R²-O-(EO)_x2-H (C)，

Wherein R is²Is C having an average of at least 2 branches per residue₁₀-C₁₄Alkyl, and wherein x₂Is a mixture of a water-soluble polymer and a water-soluble polymer, and is 2 to 4,

R⁶-O-(PO)y₄(EO)x₄ (E)

wherein x is 12-20, y is 120 to 220, and z is 12 to 20,

wherein x is 15 to 25, y is 10 to 25, and z is 15 to 25,

R⁴-O-(EO)_x(XO)_y-H (I)

wherein R4 is C₁₃-C₁₅Alkyl, x is 8 to 10, y is 1 to 3, and XO is butylene oxide,

R⁵-O-(EO)_x(PO)_y-H (J)

wherein R is⁵Is C₁₂-C₁₅Alkyl, x is 3 to 5, and y is 5 to 7,

or a combination thereof.

8. The surfactant system of claim 6, wherein the nonionic alcohol alkoxylate of the surfactant system comprises 38 parts by weight alcohol alkoxylate according to formula (A2), 38 parts by weight alcohol alkoxylate according to formula (B), and 24 parts by weight alcohol alkoxylate according to formula (D) in a weight ratio.

9. The surfactant system according to claim 6, wherein the nonionic alcohol alkoxylate of the surfactant system comprises 15 parts by weight alcohol alkoxylate according to formula (A), 15 parts by weight alcohol alkoxylate according to formula (B), and 70 parts by weight alcohol alkoxylate according to formula (D) in a weight ratio.

10. The surfactant system according to claim 6, wherein the surfactant system comprises 0-60 parts by weight of the alcohol alkoxylate according to formula (A) and 20-80 parts by weight of the alcohol alkoxylate according to formula (D), and 5-70 parts by weight of the surfactant polymer according to formula (G).

11. The surfactant system according to claim 10, wherein the surfactant system comprises 30 parts by weight of the alcohol alkoxylate according to formula (a) and 30 parts by weight of the alcohol alkoxylate according to formula (D), and 40 parts by weight of the surfactant polymer according to formula (G).

12. A method for rinsing a surface comprising the steps of:

providing a biodegradable surfactant system according to any one of claims 1 to 11;

contacting the surfactant system with water to form a use solution; and

applying the use solution to a surface in need of rinsing, wherein the use solution has a pH of 8.5 or less and provides from 1ppm to 125ppm surfactant system active agent.

13. The method of claim 12, further comprising reducing the contact angle of the surfactant system composition by at least 5 degrees compared to the contact angle of a commercially available rinse aid composition, thereby inducing sheeting and allowing faster drying times of the surface.

14. Use of the surfactant system composition according to any one of claims 1 to 11 for rinsing a surface.